ZIM vs PAK, 1st ODI Preview: Pakistan aim to end a 5-match losing streak against the depleted hosts

Babar Azam will be returning for the visitors, which should be a massive boost.

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Zimbabwe players celebrate a wicket. (Photo Source: Twitter)

Pakistan have been flying high in the sky when it comes to the shortest format of the game, but their ODI form off-late has been quite bizarre. They’re currently on a 5-match losing streak and the 2017 Champions Trophy winners will be aiming to turn the tide with a good show in Zimbabwe.

Financial crunches in Zimbabwe raised some concerns initially, but thankfully for the cricket lovers, things are going as per the plan. Zimbabwe haven’t been in great form in recent times as well, but they can take some confidence from Pakistan’s recent performances in the 50-over fixtures.

Yasir Shah will be returning for the visitors, which should be a massive boost. The likes of Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam are in good form as well, which pretty much puts Pakistan in the driver’s seat. But there’s a valid reason why people call Pakistan unpredictable and it’ll be interesting to see how they’ll perform.

Toss: Zimbabwe won the toss and opted to field

Pakistan (Playing XI): Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam, Shoaib Malik, Sarfraz Ahmed(w/c), Asif Ali, Faheem Ashraf, Shadab Khan, Hasan Ali, Mohammad Amir, Usman Khan

Zimbabwe (Playing XI): Chamu Chibhabha, Brian Chari, Hamilton Masakadza(c), Tarisai Musakanda, Peter Moor, Ryan Murray(w), Donald Tiripano, Liam Nicholas Roche, Wellington Masakadza, Tendai Chatara, Blessing Muzarabani

Team Combinations

Zimbabwe

Skipper Hamilton Masakadza will be opening the batting alongside Tarisai Musakanda, with the in-form Peter Moor at number 3. Their middle has some experienced cricketers like Elton Chiumbura, Wellington Masakadza, who can be match-winners on their day. Solomon Mire’s absence will be a big blow for the side.

Fast bowlers Tendai Chatara, Blessing Muzarabani and Tendai Chisoro will have to shoulder the bowling responsibilities. Donald Tiripano and Malcolm Waller are the other options available for the Masakadza, who will be having a tough day as a captain.

Pakistan

Whilst Fakhar Zaman has been in terrific form off-late, Imam-ul-Haq still has a point to prove. Their main batting strength lies in the middle order with the experience of Shoaib Malik and the exuberance of Babar Azam. They might be playing Shadab as an all-rounder, which might prove to be a master-stroke.

Yasir’s Shah’s return will be the big talking point amongst their bowling unit. Hasan Ali and Mohammad Amir in tandem are terrorizing batting line-ups with their pace and they have another decent seam bowling option in Faheem Ashraf. Shadab and Yasir’s wrist spinning duo will be the biggest challenge Zimbabwe will have to face.

Players to watch out for

Hamilton Masakadza (Zimbabwe)

One of the finest batsmen Zimbabwe has ever produced, Masakadza will be facing a tough task leading this side. Although Pakistan’s recent form suggests something else, they will come out hard on Friday. If Masakadza can fire with the bat and propel the side to a big total, his job would be half done. It’s important he performs well as he’s probably the only experienced player who can tackle this Pakistani bowling lineup.

Shadab Khan (Pakistan)

One of the best young cricketers in the world right now, Shadab Khan is proving to be a great find for Pakistani cricket. With the bat and ball, he’s proving himself as a match-winner. He might be batting at number 7 for this game, which will be a big boost for his confidence.

Head to Head

Matches Played – 54, Pakistan won – 47, Zimbabwe won – 4, Tied – 1, No Result – 2

Broadcast details

TV – PTV Sports (Pakistan)

Sony Six, Sony Six HD (India)

Live streaming– PTV Sports (Pakistan)

Sony LIV (India)

Timings – 12.45 PM IST

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