JOHANNESBURG: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has revealed the Playing XI for the third ODI against South Africa, featuring uncapped left-arm spinner Sufiyan Muqeem.
Pakistan, who currently hold a commanding 2-0 lead and are aiming for a clean sweep, have made three changes to their Playing XI.
Middle-order batter Tayyab Tahir, fast bowler Mohammad Hasnain, and Sufiyan have been brought in to replace Muhammad Irfan Khan, Haris Rauf, and Abrar Ahmed, respectively.
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Sufiyan’s selection comes on the heels of his impressive performances in the recent T20I series against Zimbabwe, where he made headlines with a remarkable bowling display that included record figures of 5 wickets for just 3 runs.
This impressive achievement has not gone unnoticed and reflects the PCB’s commitment to providing opportunities for emerging talent in the national squad while ensuring a fresh rotation of players.
Abdullah Shafique has managed to retain his spot, despite bagging two ducks in the series so far, and will continue to open the innings alongside the in-form Saim Ayub.
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Babar Azam is positioned at his usual number three spot, while the middle order will feature skipper Mohammad Rizwan, Kamran Ghulam, Salman Ali Agha, and the returning Tayyab Tahir.
On the bowling front, Shaheen Shah Afridi is poised to spearhead Pakistan’s pacer attack, supported by Naseem Shah and Hasnain.
Pakistan Playing XI: Mohammad Rizwan (c)(wk), Saim Ayub, Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Salman Ali Agha, Tayyab Tahir, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Hasnain, Sufiyan Muqeem.
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