ENG vs PAK 2024: Pakistan’s best playing XI in T20I series against England

In England again Pakistan will face each other in a four-match T20I series starting on May 22. The series serves as an important opportunity for both teams to prepare their squads ahead of the match. T20 World Cup 2024hosted by The West Indies as well as United States of America (USA). This series will provide both sides with important match practice and an opportunity to try out their plans and strategies.

ENG vs PAK: T20I series fixtures

The T20I series between England and Pakistan will begin on Wednesday (May 22) at Headingley, Leeds, setting the stage for an exciting cricket contest. The second leg is scheduled for Saturday (May 25) at Edgbaston, Birmingham, providing both teams with an important mid-series contest. The series will then move to Sophia Gardens, Cardiff, for the third game on Tuesday (May 28) where the teams will look to find the deadline. Finally, the series will conclude with the fourth and final match on Thursday (May 30) at Kennington Oval, London, where the teams will aim to complete their preparations ahead of the T20 World Cup.

Pakistan’s latest form and key players

Pakistan come into this series with momentum, fresh from a 2-1 win over Ireland. This series win has boosted their confidence, and they will be looking to continue their good form against England.

Babar Azam he will be a key player for Pakistan. As the most successful captain in T20Is, his leadership and batting prowess will be crucial. The series also marks a significant return Harris Raufwho has not been playing due to an injury he received during the season Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024. His pace and his ability to pick up wickets at key pitches will be crucial to Pakistan’s success.

In addition to Rauf, Pakistan’s bowling attack also includes formidable players Hasan Ali, And Seem Shahagain Shaheen Shah Afridi. These bowlers have the potential to trouble any batsman in the world, making them a key asset for Pakistan in the upcoming series and world cup.

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The Pakistan team is also strengthened by the presence of various players. Iftikhar Ahmed, Shadab Khanagain Imad Wasim provide depth in both batting and bowling, allowing the team to maintain balance and flexibility in their line-up. Their ability to contribute to multiple aspects of the game makes them invaluable, especially in T20 cricket where adaptability is key.

Pakistani batting XI for T20I series against England:

1. Babar Azam (Captain)

• Role: A higher order bit
• Reason: Babar Azam’s consistency and innings-stopping ability make him very valuable. His leadership is important in guiding the team.

2. Mohammad Rizwan (Wicketkeeper)

• Role: A higher order bit
• Reason: Rizwan’s recent form in T20s has been impressive. His ability to keep the scoreboard impressive and play aggressive cricket is key.

3. Sam Ayub

• Role: A higher order bit
• Reason: A rising star, Saim brings new energy and aggression to the top, providing the spark needed at the start of the innings.

4. Iftikhar Ahmed

• Role: Middle-order batter, temporary off-spinner
• Reason: Iftikhar provides stability and strength to the central system. His ability to play big shots and a useful bowler without spin make him a valuable asset.

5. Azam Khan

• Role: A middle order batter
• Reason: Known for his hard-hitting ability, Azam Khan can tackle the bowlers in the middle and death overs, giving the team the firepower needed to increase their scoring rate.

6. Imad Wasim

• Role: All-rounder (left-arm spinner, lower order batter)
• Reason: Imad’s experience and ability to bowl economically is crucial in T20s. His batting skills lower down the order can provide valuable runs.

7. Shadab Khan (Vice-Captain)

• Role: All-rounder (leg-spinner, lower order batter)
• Reason: Shadab’s all-round skills, leadership qualities, and excellent play make him a valuable player. His Leg-spin is especially effective in T20s.

8. Hasan Ali

• Role: Fast bowler
• Reason: Hasan’s knowledge and ability to bowl in English conditions is invaluable. His low batting average would also be a bonus.

9. Shaheen Afridi

• Role: Fast bowler
• Reason: Shaheen’s pace and ability to take wickets in the powerplay and at the death make him an integral part of the bowling attack.

10. Haris Rauf

• Role: Fast bowler
• Reason: Haris’ expressive pace and his ability in the death overs are essential to contain the opposition and pick up important wickets.

11. Naseem Shah

• Role: Fast bowler
• Reason: Naseem’s pace and bounce make him an exciting and aggressive option in the bowling line-up, especially in English conditions.

Changing Players

• Mohammad Amir: An experienced bowler who can provide guidance and step in when needed.
• Abrar Ahmed: A mystery spinner that can be used on pitches that help spin.
• Mohammad Abbas Afridi: A promising young fast bowler who can be trained for the upcoming series.
• Usman Khan: An additional betting option to provide depth if needed.
• Mohammad Irfan Khan: A versatile player who can be included because of his batting prowess and fielding ability.

England’s strategy

1. Pace Attack: Using the pace and movement of Shaheen, Haris, and Naseem, Pakistan can use bounce and swing in English conditions. Hasan Ali adds to this with his bowling ability.
2. Spin Options: Shadab and Imad provide a balanced spin attack, which is important for controlling the middle overs. Their experience in T20 leagues adds tactical flexibility.
3. Powerful Betting System: The top order is supported by Babar and Rizwan, while Saim Ayub and Azam Khan provide a dangerous stroke play. The middle system, with Iftikhar, Imad, and Shadab, provides both stability and explosive power.
4. Fielding and Versatility: This squad includes several all-rounders, who provide depth in both batting and bowling. The fielding unit, led by Shadab and Babar, is fast and powerful, essential in T20s.

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