Pakistan announce playing XI for IND vs PAK, Asia Cup 2023 Group A fixture one day before match

Pakistan have announced their playing XI for Asia Cup 2023 Group A clash against India.

On Friday, Pakistan revealed the lineup they will field in the much-anticipated Asia Cup 2023 group match against India. This exciting cricket contest is scheduled for September 2, 2023, and it will take place in Pallekele, Sri Lanka, on Saturday. What makes this match even more intriguing is that it signifies the first time these two cricketing giants will be facing each other in 10 months. The previous encounter between them occurred during the T20 World Cup in 2022. However, this time, they will compete in the 50-over format, which is significant as it serves as preparation for the upcoming ODI World Cup in 2023.

Pakistan began their Asia Cup campaign with a resounding victory over Nepal. They dominated the match, winning by an impressive margin of 238 runs. This success was largely driven by the outstanding performances of key senior players, including the likes of Babar Azam, Shadab Khan, and Shaheen Afridi. These experienced players showcased their cricketing skills and played pivotal roles in securing the team's victory. One of the standout moments in this triumph was Iftikhar Ahmed's century.

Pakistan have been consistently revealing their playing XI for the Asia Cup 2023 a day before each match. They did so before their game against Nepal, and now they've done it again ahead of their second match against India. This strategic move demonstrates their confidence and a subtle attempt to put pressure on the Indian team before the match. What's interesting is that they have decided to stick with the same playing XI that performed extremely well in the match against Nepal, indicating their belief in the team's abilities and chemistry.

Despite some prior speculation and uncertainty regarding Fakhar Zaman's place in the team, the left-handed opener has retained his position.

Here is the Pakistan Playing XI

Pakistan Playing XI: Babar Azam (c), Shadab Khan (vc), Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Salman Ali Agha, Iftikhar Ahmed, Muhammad Rizwan (wk), Muhammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf