Asia Cup 2023 | PAK vs SL, Super Fours, 5th Match - Cricket Fantasy Teams After Toss

Babar Azam & Dasun Shanaka (Twitter)

All eyes will be on the R. Premadasa Stadium this Thursday as Pakistan is pitted against Sri Lanka in a decisive Super Fours match of the Asia Cup 2023. 

Billed as the virtual semi-final, fans are bracing for a pulsating face-off. The victor will earn the honour of challenging India in the grand finale scheduled for Sunday.

Pakistan's route to this pivotal point involved overcoming Nepal in the group stages. Unfortunately, inclement weather intervened, robbing them of a face-off against India. 

Nevertheless, the team displayed their mettle against Bangladesh in the Super Fours, before tasting a massive 228-run defeat to India. With that loss in hindsight, Pakistan is hoping to recalibrate and mark a solid score against Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka, meanwhile, carries a proud record from the group stages, having secured victories over both Bangladesh and Afghanistan. Their winning spree continued as they again overpowered Bangladesh in the Super Fours. 

However, their momentum hiccuped against India. Playing on their home ground and well-versed with the conditions, the Lions are hopeful of re-establishing their winning streak and sealing their berth in the grand finale.

As the cricket community awaits the clash, we speculate on the possible fantasy teams based on the toss:

Scenario 1: If Pakistan bat first

Fans should consider opting for Pakistan’s top four batters, given their potential to make substantial scores. Additionally, the wicket's penchant to aid spinners suggests the inclusion of at least two spin bowlers. Dunith Wellalage, following his remarkable performance in the previous match, alongside Maheesh Theekshana should find spots. 

Among pacers, Matheesha Pathirana, known for his devastating yorkers, is a must-have. Given his impressive record against Sri Lanka, Babar Azam emerges as a preferred captain choice, with Wellalage’s versatility making him an apt vice-captain.

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Scenario 2: If Sri Lanka bat first

Should Sri Lanka bat first, Pathum Nissanka and Dimuth Karunaratne are top picks. If they're overlooked, Sadeera Samarawickrama and Kusal Mendis are advisable choices, particularly given the formidable presence of Pakistani pacers like Shaheen Afridi. 

All-rounders Charith Asalanka and Dhananjaya de Silva, who excel both in batting and spin bowling, should also be on the list. For bowling, Shaheen Afridi becomes the obvious first choice due to his proficiency with the new ball. Asalanka should be the captain and Shadab Khan a vice-captain option.

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