Babar Azam To Feature Abrar Ahmed; Pakistan's Probable XI For 1st T20I Vs IRE

Pakistan to play against Ireland in Dublin [AP]Pakistan to play against Ireland in Dublin [AP]

Pakistan and Ireland are set to kick off a thrilling three-match T20I series at the Clontarf Cricket Club Ground in Dublin.

With less than a month remaining until the T20 World Cup commences in the USA and West Indies, Pakistan find themselves in a pivotal phase, yet to finalise their squad for the prestigious tournament. 

The series against Ireland presents an ideal opportunity for the Asians to fine-tune their lineup and assess potential combinations ahead of the global event.

In their recent encounter against New Zealand, Pakistan engaged in a closely contested 5-match T20I series, which ultimately ended in a 2-2 draw. 

As they prepare to take on Ireland in 1st T20I, Pakistan may opt to retain the same playing XI from their clash against New Zealand, with one notable change in consideration.

Pakistan skipper Babar Azam might bring in Abrar Ahmed in place of Usama Mir. Mir's performance in the last T20I was below expectations, as he conceded 41 runs while managing to secure just one wicket. 

With the T20 World Cup looming on the horizon, Azam is keen on fielding a competitive squad and may view Ahmed as a potential asset to bolster the team's bowling arsenal.

Pakistan Probable XI: 

Saim Ayub, Babar Azam (c), Usman Khan (wk), Fakhar Zaman, Iftikhar Ahmed, Shadab Khan, Imad Wasim, Abrar Ahmed, Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Shaheen Afridi