Pakistan’s cricket team will take on Bangladesh on Friday, with hopes high for the World Cup, depending on the outcome of Wednesday’s England-New Zealand match.
The bad news for Pakistani fans is that Wahab Riaz, who injured his finger on his non-bowling hand ahead of the match against Afghanistan, is likely to make way for Hasan Ali or Mohammad Hasnain. The injury has aggravated and featuring him in the match will further worsen the situation.
On the other hand, Mohammad Hafeez’s form has been a matter of grave concern for the management, considering that he has been getting out at crucial times to part-timers, not taking the responsibility that he should at the age of 38.
Sources suggest that the all-rounder will not be a part of the playing XI and in his place, either Asif Ali or Shoaib Malik will slot into the team. Malik’s form has been poor and he hasn’t been bowling much, which makes the case strong for Asif’s inclusion. Haris Sohail can perform the duties of the 6th bowler and Asif Ali can prove to be a winning bet at Lord’s with his six-hitting prowess.
A win for Pakistan and New Zealand will see Sarfaraz XI go into the semi-finals.