An injury-hit Pakistan will have the tough task of taming a high-spirited Sri Lanka when they lock horns in a Super Fours match here on Thursday for a place in the Asia Cup final.
Both Pakistan and Sri Lanka have two points and the winner of the virtual knock-out game will progress to the final on September 17.
India have already secured a place in the summit clash after they defeated Sri Lanka by 41 runs in a Super Fours game on Tuesday.
Rohit Sharma’s men lead the table with four points.
However, Pakistan will have more lines on their forehead ahead of their crunch game against the Lankans.
Naseem Shah has been ruled out of the tournament with a shoulder injury he sustained during their match against India. Haris Rauf too is a doubtful starter.
Pakistan have added Shahnawaz Dahani and Zaman Khan, a 22-year-old slinger in the Lasith Malinga mould who can hit 150 kmph, as back-ups..
But that is just one part of their bag of worries. Pakistan’s batting is yet to hit the top gear in the tournament, except a 342/6 against minnows Nepal in the tournament opener at Multan.
They are largely dependent on their openers — Fakhar Zaman and Imam-ul-Haq — and captain Babar Azam for runs. Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Agha also need to contribute.
Iftikhar Ahmed showed his big-hitting prowess with a blistering hundred against Nepal, but he needs to do that more consistently against better oppositions.
Sri Lanka are no pushovers. While defeating Bangladesh and stretching India, the Lankans under Dasun Shanaka have shown that they are capable of pulling off upsets. Dunith Wellalage, Matheesha Pathirana and Maheesh Theekshana have come up with some impressive efforts so far.
Written with PTI inputs
Morkel message
Pakistan bowling coach Morne Morkel on Wednesday said missing pacer Naseem Shah was a big blow but hoped that another bowler will step into his shoes.
“Obviously, it is a big blow. It is unfortunate that he picked some little niggles. But what a fantastic opportunity for the guys coming in. After going down against India, it’s a must-win game for us. I’m quite excited to see new guys stepping in and showing some character,” said Morkel. “After the India match, we were bitterly disappointed. It is very important for the bowlers to do a bit of self-reflection.”
