LAHORE: Pakistan are expected to field three fast bowlers in the opening T20I against Sri Lanka in Rawalpindi on Friday, with young pacer Rezaullah reportedly set to make his T20 international debut.
According to sources, Pakistan are unlikely to include Arafat Minhas and Sufiyan Muqeem in the playing XI as newly appointed captain Sahibzada Farhan prepares for his first assignment in charge of the national team.
Wicketkeeper-batter Khawaja Nafay is also expected to feature behind the stumps, while Pakistan could rely on a combination of experienced campaigners and emerging talent for the series opener.
The likely playing XI includes Sahibzada Farhan, Maaz Sadaqat, Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, Hasan Nawaz, Khawaja Nafay, Shadab Khan, Rezaullah, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed and Salman Mirza.
The selection would give Rezaullah an opportunity to make his T20I debut on home soil and strengthen Pakistan’s pace attack alongside Naseem Shah and Salman Mirza.
Pakistan’s bowling combination is expected to feature Abrar Ahmed’s spin alongside the three fast bowlers, while Shadab Khan could provide an additional all-round option.
The possible omission of Arafat Minhas and Sufiyan Muqeem suggests the team management is considering a different balance for the opening match.
The three-match T20I series will provide Pakistan an opportunity to assess their combinations and build momentum under Farhan’s leadership. The captain has previously expressed confidence in his ability to handle the responsibility, citing his experience leading teams in domestic cricket.
While the reported lineup offers an indication of Pakistan’s plans, the final playing XI will be confirmed at the toss.
With a potential debutant and a new captain in focus, Pakistan will hope to begin the series against Sri Lanka with a strong performance in Rawalpindi.
