Saleem Jafar an ESPN Cricket analyst says that Pakistan is facing some issues that need to be addressed before going into the next match against. Pakistan is looking for a big win even though they have won against the Netherlands but their thrust for a big win is not yet quenched. The top-order failed to perform in that match. Saud Shakeel and Muhammad Rizwan played well but Pakistan could not pass the 300 mark even against the Netherlands bowling attack.
For a big win in the ICC World Cup 2023 they need to win against a test-status nation. They will be up against Sri Lanka who have lost against South Africa, conceding 428 runs in 50 overs game.
Babar Azam has to step up to score big in the World Cup. He has been off-color for the last 5 matches. Just one half century in the last five innings which is something you do not associate with Babar Azam.
The openers are the biggest concern for Pakistan. Fakhar Zaman has been out of form since the Afghanistan series in Sri Lanka. In the first match against the Netherlands, he got out cheaply. Imam also needs to bring his A-game to give Pakistan the start that they need.
Another issue that creates problems for Pakistan and Babar Azam is playing spin, especially, left-arm spinners. Babar Azam lost his wicket to a spinner against the Netherlands. Sri Lanka is expected to play Theekshana against Pakistan is another problem for the team.
The presence of Theekshana will bring stability to the Sri Lanka playing XI. Pakistan have never lost to Sri Lanka in their 7 outings. So, Pakistan is high on confidence. Will Pakistan make it 8-0 or Sri Lanka is going to be off their mark against Pakistan in this ICC tournament.
