PAK v SL, 3rd T20I Preview: A historic showdown at Lahore; Pakistan all set to lift the trophy at home

This might not be the trophy Pakistan would be utterly proud of (with due respect to Sri Lanka), but the occasion is just too heartwarming. After all the predicaments they’ve gone through and all the allegations slapped on them vociferously, here they are, hosting Sri Lanka for the first time since the 2009 Terror attack. Definitely, emotions will be riding high and this game will be a lot more than just cricket.

No matter how much security the Pakistan government guaranteed, few Lankan players decided to stay away from the series. Respecting a fact that mentally they’re not willing to travel back to the same place where they almost knocked the doors of death, the Sri Lankan Cricket board made wholesome changes in the squad and are sending their second best side to Lahore.

Coming back to the cricketing things, both these teams were a part of an absolute cracker on Friday. Shadab Khan exploits in the final few overs helped the hosts sneak through, but it was a decent fight back from the Islanders after ending up with a below par total batting first. Well, the stage’s all set for a breathtaking contest and the visitors taking something back from the series would be utterly devastating for the home fans.

Toss: Sri Lanka won the toss and elected to bowl first

Pakistan (Playing XI): Umar Amin, Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Shoaib Malik, Mohammad Hafeez, Sarfraz Ahmed(w/c), Imad Wasim, Fahim Ashraf, Shadab Khan, Hasan Ali, Mohammad Amir

Sri Lanka (Playing XI): Dilshan Munaweera, Danushka Gunathilaka, Sadeera Samarawickrama(w), Mahela Udawatte, Chaturanga de Silva, Dasun Shanaka, Thisara Perera(c), Sachith Pathirana, Seekkuge Prasanna, Isuru Udana, Vikum Sanjaya

Focus will be on

Shadab Khan (Pakistan)

After leaving the Islanders clueless with the ball, Shadab Khan had the final say in the game and showed some great nerves under pressure. He registered figures of 1/14 in his 4 overs and has been the most economical bowler for Pakistan in the series. The wrist-spinner has been hogging a lot of limelight ever since he showcased his talent and on this momentous occasion, he would love to do contribute something big for his side.

Thisara Perera (Sri Lanka)

Perera was criticised for his lack of involvement in the first game, but he came good with the ball in the second, having a telling impact and pushing the game all the way to the final over. The all-rounder should push himself up a little in the batting order, being the most experienced player. Though they have nothing to lose, they’d be eager to drive home respect with a decent show.

Playing combinations

Pakistan

Fakhar Zaman and Ahmed Shehzad will be opening the innings despite continuing their poor form. Babar Azam’s horrendous run in the T20 Internationals is continuing, much to the disappointment for Pakistan. Shoaib Malik, Mohammad Hafeez, Sarfraz Ahmed and Imad Wasim will comprise the middle order, with some capable lower middle order batsmen present like Faheem Ashraf and Shadab Khan.

Bowlers thus far have been brilliant throughout the limited overs fixtures. Usman Khan Shinwari will be sharing the new ball with Hasan Ali. Faheem Ashraf was sensational the other day and he will be their third seam bowler in the game. Shadab Khan, Mohammad Hafeez and Imad Wasim will be the three spinning options for Sarfraz.

Sri Lanka

Danushka Gunathilaka and Dilshan Munaweera will begin the proceedings for the visitors. Samarawickrama will be coming out to bat at number 3, with Ashan Priyanjan, Mahela Udawatte, Sachith Pathirana, Dasun Shanaka and Thisara Perera will comprise their middle order.

Vikum Sanjaya was decent the other day, barring the one six he conceded in the final over. Isuru Udana thus far had his best game in International colors and he will be pumped up for this huge game. Sachith Pathirana and Prasanna will be their spin bowlers and Thisara Perera will be the all-rounder.

StatAttack

6 – This will be the sixth T20I hosted by the Gaddafi Stadium.

4 – Pakistan won four out of the five T20 games played at this venue.