WCL 2025: Match 1, EDC vs PNC Match Prediction – Who will win today’s WCL match between EDC vs PNC?

The England Champions will take on the Pakistan Champions in the opening match of the World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025 at Edgbaston, Birmingham, on Friday, July 18. This is the second season of the marquee event for retired and former cricketers, who still have enough prowess to play a decent level of the sport.

England will be led by World Cup-winning captain Eoin Morgan and will look to kick off their campaign on a high note at home. The squad features a host of experienced names, including star all-rounder Moeen Ali, Samit Patel, Liam Plunkett, and Ravi Bopara.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Champions, runners-up in WCL 2024, will enter the tournament with renewed focus to claim the title this year. The team was led by Shahid Afridi, and it includes legendary players like Misbah-ul-Haq, Younis Khan, and Wahab Riaz in their arsenal, making them one of the most formidable line-ups of the tournament's second edition.

ENG Champions vs PAK Champions Match Details

Pitch Report

The pitch in Edgbaston, Birmingham offers a balanced pitch, providing assistance to spinners and pacers. However, under lights, batting first could be a big advantage for the teams. The weather is likely to remain clear, and hence, the captain winning the toss is likely to command the opposition for bowling first at this historic venue.

Head-to-Head Record

Predicted Playing 11

England Champions

Sir Alastair Cook, Ian Bell, Moeen Ali, Eoin Morgan (c), Phil Mustard (wk), Ravi Bopara, Samit Patel, Liam Plunkett, Chris Tremlett, Ryan Sidebottom, Stuart Meaker

Pakistan Champions

Shoaib Maqsood, Asif Ali, Misbah-ul-Haq, Younis Khan, Shoaib Malik, Shahid Afridi (c), Sarfaraz Ahmed (wk), Abdul Razzaq, Sohail Tanvir, Wahab Riaz, Saeed Ajmal

Probable Best Performers of the Match

Probable Best Batter: Ian Bell

England top-order batter Ian Bell could be the key player in the opening clash for the England Champions. He scored 230 runs in the 2024 edition of the WCL and brings valuable experience and attacking intent to anchor the innings.

Probable Best Bowler: Wahab Riaz

The left-arm pacer Wahab Riaz could be the key bowler for the Pakistan Champions in their opening match of WCL 2025. He was the leading wicket-taker in the 2024 edition and will look to replicate his impact once again this season.

Today's Match Prediction: Chasing team to win the match

Scenario 1

• England Champions win the toss and opt to bowl first
• Powerplay: 40-50
• PNC: 145-150
• England Champions win the match

Scenario 2

• Pakistan Champions win the toss and opt to bowl first
• Powerplay: 45-55
• EDC: 140-150
• Pakistan Champions win the match

Disclaimer: The prediction is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While making your prediction, consider the points mentioned and make your own decision.