As Pakistan gears up for their crucial Super 4 clash in the 2023 Asia Cup against defending champions Sri Lanka, scheduled for Thursday in Colombo, here’s a look at the likely playing XI for the Men in Green.

Pakistan may opt for a different playing XI following their 228-run loss to India, mainly because key pacers like Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf are nursing niggling injuries.

One potential change is the introduction of left-handed batsman Saud Shakeel in place of Agha Salman. While Shakeel’s ODI track record is limited, with 76 runs in 6 matches at a strike rate of 71.02, he has made significant contributions in Test cricket, including a double hundred against Sri Lanka. Salman, on the other hand, has struggled in the Asia Cup, and an injury sustained against India could keep him out of the upcoming match.

Given the spin-friendly conditions in Colombo, it’s probable that Usama Mir might replace Faheem Ashraf, although this decision remains uncertain due to overcast conditions.

In light of the injuries to Naseem and Rauf, Pakistan might field Zaman Khan and Mohammad Wasim Jr. as their pacers.

It’s important to note that both Haris and Naseem are likely to miss not only Pakistan’s last Super 4 match against Sri Lanka but also their potential availability for the final, should Pakistan advance.

With both Pakistan and Sri Lanka tied at 2 points after two Super 4 matches, their upcoming clash serves as a virtual semi-final. The winner will earn a spot in the final against India.

In case the Sri Lanka vs. Pakistan match is affected by rain, Sri Lanka will qualify for the final due to their superior net run rate (-0.200) compared to Pakistan (-1.892).

1. Fakhar Zaman
2. Imam ul Haq
3. Babar Azam (C)
4. Mohammad Rizwan (wk)
5. Saud Shakeel
6. Iftikhar Ahmed
7. Shadab Khan
8. Usama Mir / Faheem Ashraf
9. Shaheen Afridi
10. Zaman Khan
11. Mohammad Wasim Jr.