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Naseem Shah Back; Key Batter Dropped? Expected Changes In Pakistan's XI For 3rd ODI vs NZ

Debashis Sarangi

Naseem could be recalled for 3rd ODI vs NZ [Source: @TheRealPCB, @SanyalwithStats/X]Naseem could be recalled for 3rd ODI vs NZ [Source: @TheRealPCB, @SanyalwithStats/X]

On Saturday, Pakistan will cross swords against New Zealand in the final One-Day International of the ongoing three-match series. The much-awaited encounter will be played at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui. 

Led by Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan have conceded the series, having already lost the first two matches. So, as the visitors gear up to play for their pride, let's analyse and find out the probable changes in their playing XI for the final game. 

Will Naseem Shah Be Back In Place Of Haris Rauf?

Ace speedster Naseem Shah was excluded from Pakistan's playing XI for the second ODI due to his persistent rough patch in the 50-over format. In his previous seven ODI outings, Naseem has bagged only six wickets at an average of 56.83 and a strike rate of 56. 

However, the experienced cricketer showcased sublime form, hammering a blistering 51-run knock as Haris Rauf's concussion substitute. Although his valiant effort couldn't help Pakistan cross the line, Naseem received massive applause for his outrageous knock. 

Also, considering Rauf was hit on his helmet while batting, Pakistan might decide to rest him and bring Naseem back into their playing XI. Meanwhile, despite conceding 78 runs off his ten overs, Mohammad Wasim Jr might get another opportunity, as he played an ODI after a long hiatus. 

No Place For Tayyab Tahir?

Experienced batter Tayyab Tahir has had a prolonged lean run in ODI cricket. The middle-order batter has failed to impress the think tank, managing only 14 runs in this series. 

More importantly, Tahir has scored just 19 runs in his last four ODI innings. So, considering his poor run, Pakistan might replace him with Khushdil Shah. 

Khushdil was one of Pakistan's most prolific batters in the Champions Trophy this year. He showcased his finishing prowess in the tournament, amassing 107 runs at an average of 53.50 and a strike rate of 121.59. Apart from scoring vital runs down the order, he can chip in with a few overs of left-arm off spin. 

Pakistan's Expected Playing XI For 3rd ODI

Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan (C/WK), Agha Salman, Khushdil Shah, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Naseem Shah, Sufiyan Muqeem, Akif Javed