Following their recent series against Australia, the Pakistan cricket team is set to embark on a white-ball tour of Zimbabwe. The tour, which consists of three One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and three T20 Internationals (T20Is), kicks off with the opening ODI on November 24, 2024.
Pakistan’s tour of Zimbabwe: A crucial test ahead of Champions Trophy 2025
This series will present an ideal platform for Pakistan’s emerging players to showcase their talents, as several key figures like Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi have been rested. The tour holds particular significance for the team as it follows a mixed tour of Australia, where Pakistan secured a 2-1 victory in the ODI series but faced a 3-0 whitewash in the T20I segment.
With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on the horizon, these matches against Zimbabwe are strategically important for Pakistan. The team aims to assert its dominance in white-ball cricket while also fine-tuning their lineup in preparation for the upcoming global challenges. Facing a motivated Zimbabwean side, this tour will serve as a crucial stepping stone for Pakistan’s ambitions in international cricket.
Also READ: Pakistan announces their white-ball squads for Zimbabwe tour; Mohammad Rizwan rested for T20Is
Pakistan’s top-choice playing XI for the ODI series against Zimbabwe
1. Saim Ayub
Saim Ayub is an explosive left-handed batsman, known for his aggressive stroke play. His ability to attack from the outset makes him a great asset in the middle order, where he can accelerate the innings. Ayub can also provide quick runs during the death overs and is a game-changer in chasing targets.
2. Abdullah Shafique
Shafique is a solid opening batter, known for his technique and ability to play long innings. He has shown promise in the limited opportunities he has had, offering resilience at the top. His partnership with Rizwan would form the backbone of Pakistan’s opening stand.
3. Mohammad Rizwan (wk)
Rizwan is a reliable wicketkeeper-batter, known for his consistent performances in the top order. His calm demeanor and ability to anchor the innings make him an essential part of Pakistan’s top order. He provides stability in challenging conditions and can accelerate when required.
4. Kamran Ghulam
Kamran Ghulam has been impressive in domestic cricket with his consistent batting performances. His ability to adapt to different match situations, both as a top-order and middle-order player, makes him a valuable asset. He can stabilize the innings and play the anchor role if required.
5. Tayyab Tahir
Tayyab Tahir is an attacking batter, capable of building innings and taking on the bowlers. His technique allows him to play in the middle order, and his adaptability makes him a great asset in chasing or setting targets. He provides depth to the batting lineup.
6. Salman Ali Agha
Salman Ali Agha is a versatile all-rounder who can contribute both with the bat and the ball. His experience in the middle order helps provide balance, and he can also break partnerships with his off-spin bowling. He offers flexibility in different match situations.
7. Shahnawaz Dahani
Shahnawaz Dahani is a key fast bowler known for his pace and aggressive style. His ability to bowl in the powerplay and his knack for taking early wickets make him an essential part of the attack. Dahani adds energy and aggression to the bowling unit.
8. Aamir Jamal
Aamir Jamal is a fast bowler with a reputation for delivering in the death overs. His pace and ability to bowl yorkers make him dangerous at the end of an innings. Jamal’s composure under pressure and his ability to maintain a tight line are crucial for Pakistan’s bowling strategy.
9. Haris Rauf
Haris Rauf is Pakistan’s premier fast bowler, known for his raw pace and ability to generate bounce. His ability to bowl in the middle overs and deliver key breakthroughs makes him a game-changer. Rauf is capable of devastating the opposition with his speed and consistency.
10. Mohammad Hasnain
Mohammad Hasnain’s pace and aggression make him a critical component of Pakistan’s bowling attack. His ability to bowl quickly and swing the ball effectively makes him a threat in all phases of the game. Hasnain can break partnerships and provide important wickets.
11. Abrar Ahmed
Abrar Ahmed is a highly skilled leg-spinner who can turn the ball sharply and deceive batter. His variations and control in the middle overs make him a crucial part of the bowling attack. Abrar has the ability to break partnerships and has shown impressive performances in the limited chances he has had.