KOLKATA: Pakistan are considering making three changes to their lineup for the upcoming ICC World Cup 2023 match against Bangladesh, which is set to take place tomorrow at Kolkata's Eden Gardens.
The key development causing a buzz in the cricketing world is the uncertainty surrounding the participation of all-rounder Shadab Khan. As of now, the 25-year-old playing the match remains in doubt, with the final decision contingent on further assessment scheduled for the morning.
During the practice session today, Shadab Khan didn't bowl. As per sources, he is not in the best of health and is currently not feeling 100 per cent fit.
Shadab Khan hit his head on the ground during the first over of the second innings in the 26th match of the competition against South Africa.
All-rounder was taken to the local hospital during the match for a Computed Tomography (CT) Scan to find out the extent of his injury.
Usama Mir, who came in as a concussion substitute for Shadab Khan, will be part of the playing XI. The leg-spinner had picked figures of 2/45 in eight overs.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan team management is contemplating two more changes to their playing XI.
Fakhar Zaman is a prime candidate to replace Imam-ul-Haq, potentially adding a new dynamic to the opening partnership.
Furthermore, Salman Ali Agha might take Mohammad Nawaz's place in the final XI.
Remember, the Men in Green has lost four straight games this World Cup after winning the first two games.
To make a case for a final four spot, Pakistan has to win the remaining three games and hope that other match results go in their favour.
Pakistan's likely XI:
Fakhar Zaman, Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam (C), Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Salman Ali Agha, Usama Mir, Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Haris Rauf
Faizan Lakhani Faizan Lakhani is Deputy Editor (Sports) at Geo News.