Pakistan make two changes in playing XI before Pak vs SA. In a bid to salvage their dwindling campaign in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, the Pakistan cricket team has made strategic changes ahead of their pivotal encounter against South Africa at Chennai’s M Chidambaram Stadium.
Sources have confirmed that Pakistan, currently reeling at sixth place in the tournament standings, has opted for two crucial alterations in their lineup for the must-win match.
The seasoned pacer Hasan Ali, grappling with illness, is set to be replaced by the promising Mohammad Wasim Jr., marking his maiden appearance in this World Cup edition.
Additionally, the all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz will step in, taking the place of leg-spinner Usama Mir.
These alterations underline Pakistan’s determination to reverse their fortunes after a series of setbacks, including defeats against arch-rivals India and an unexpected loss to Afghanistan.
As Pakistan make two changes in playing XI before Pak vs SA, Pakistan’s World Cup journey, which commenced on a promising note with victories over the Netherlands and Sri Lanka, took a sharp downturn with successive losses to cricketing powerhouses India and Australia, followed by the shocking defeat to Afghanistan.
The team, captained by the talented Babar Azam, is now facing a “do-or-die” situation against South Africa, a team in scintillating form with four wins in five games.
Apart from securing a victory, Pakistan finds itself in a precarious position with a net run-rate of -0.40. As the tournament progresses, this metric could prove decisive in the race for coveted semi-final spots.
With only a handful of matches remaining in the group stage, every run and wicket becomes crucial for Pakistan’s ambitions.
In a pre-match press conference, all-rounder Shadab Khan exuded confidence amidst the mounting pressure.
“We have not played to our potential, but from now on, we have to start a winning streak,” he declared.
Khan acknowledged the valid criticism faced by the team and himself, emphasizing the natural ebb and flow of a player’s performance. He expressed optimism about his own improvement and hoped for a stellar team performance that would silence the critics.
As the cricketing world watches with bated breath, Pakistan braces itself for a high-stakes battle against South Africa.
The team’s fate hangs in the balance, and only a remarkable turnaround on the field can keep their World Cup dreams alive.
