Pakistan are expected to make two changes for the third T20I of the four-match series against England at Sophia Gardens, Cardiff today.
England defeated Pakistan in the second T20I of the series, while the first match was abandoned due to rain. It is crucial for Pakistan to make a strong comeback in today’s match to avoid losing the series.
In today’s important match, two changes are likely in the Pakistan lineup. Shadab Khan and Saim Ayub are expected to be dropped, with Usman Khan, Abrar Ahmed, or Naseem Shah potentially coming in instead.
During the second T20I, Shadab Khan conceded 55 runs in four overs, while Saim Ayub scored only two runs off seven balls.
The final decision on the team composition will be made prior to the toss, depending on the pitch and weather conditions.
On the other hand, England’s squad has significant changes as well. Jos Buttler is unavailable due to paternity leave, so Moeen Ali will captain the team in his place.
In the second T20I, Buttler played a crucial innings, scoring 84 runs off 51 balls with eight fours and three sixes. He also completed 3,000 runs in T20I cricket, becoming only the ninth player to achieve this milestone in the format.
Regarding the weather in Cardiff, it is currently raining periodically following the Leeds match. However, it is expected to clear up two hours prior to the evening match.
In the previous T20I, Pakistan, chasing a target of 184, were bowled out for 160. This was England’s eighth win in the last 11 T20Is against Pakistan.
Fakhar Zaman was the standout for Pakistan, scoring 45 runs off 21 balls with three fours and five sixes. Skipper Babar Azam contributed 32 runs off 26 balls as the second-highest scorer.
Lower down the order, Iftikhar Ahmed (23 off 17) and Imad Wasim (22 off 13) provided valuable runs, but it wasn’t enough to secure a victory for Pakistan.
