NEW DELHI: Pakistan have finalised its playing XI for the inaugural match of the 2023 Asia Cup against Nepal, scheduled to be held in Multan on Wednesday. In preparation for this encounter, Pakistan's team composition is geared towards bolstering their batting lineup.
In terms of bowling resources, Pakistan possess a wealth of options, boasting three frontline fast bowlers and a trio of all-rounders who are capable of contributing with spin.
Notable adjustments have been made compared to the starting lineup deployed against Afghanistan in the concluding ODI in Colombo.
Saud Shakeel will shift to the middle-order, making way for Iftikhar Ahmed to assume his position. The pace bowling department will be spearheaded by Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf, leaving no room for the inclusion of pacer Mohammad Wasim.
The spin bowling facet will be orchestrated by Shadab Khan and Mohammad Nawaz, with additional support from Salman Agha.
As for the batting order, it remains consistent with Iftikhar's return to the middle-order after his absence in the final ODI against Afghanistan.
Pakistan XI: Babar Azam (c), Fakhar Zaman, Imam ul Haq, Mohammad Rizwan, Iftikhar Ahmed, Salman Agha, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf.
