The eagerly anticipated first match of the T20 series between Pakistan and England was cancelled due to continuous heavy rain. The umpires announced the cancellation before the toss could take place, disappointing fans who had been looking forward to the clash.
Despite the setback, the Pakistan cricket team remains focused on their preparations for the upcoming World Cup. In a press conference on Tuesday, Pakistan’s captain Babar Azam revealed a key strategic change: he will be batting at number three. This adjustment allows Mohammad Rizwan to open the innings alongside either Usman Khan or Saeem Ayub. Saeem Ayub, in particular, had an intensive one-and-a-half-hour training session with white-ball coach Gary Kirsten, raising speculation about his inclusion in the next match.
The middle order features powerful hitters such as Fakhar Zaman, Azam Khan—who will also don the wicket-keeping gloves—Iftikhar Ahmed, and all-rounder Imad Wasim, ensuring a solid base and the ability to accelerate the innings. Pakistan’s bowling attack is set to be formidable, with a four-man pace lineup led by Shaheen Afridi, and supported by Abbas Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Mohammad Amir.
As Pakistan looks ahead to the next match against England, the possible XI could include Saeem Ayub/Usman Khan, Mohammad Rizwan, Babar Azam (captain), Fakhar Zaman, Azam Khan (wicketkeeper), Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Abbas Afridi, and Mohammad Amir.
The team’s preparations continue as they aim to fine-tune their strategies and finalize their squad for the T20 World Cup.
