In the third match of the ongoing T20I Tri-Nation series, hosts Pakistan will square off against Sri Lanka on Saturday in Rawalpindi. The match carries very different stakes for both teams. Pakistan enter the game buoyed by a narrow opening win over Zimbabwe, while Sri Lanka return to the field bruised after a heavy defeat against Zimbabwe. This match is crucial for both sides, as they know that it is a chance to correct early faults and set their campaign on the right track.

Pakistan’s victory over Zimbabwe gave them the ideal start on paper, but the manner of the win exposed cracks beneath the surface. Their chase, which should have been an effortless one, turned tense midway, forcing Mohammad Nawaz into rescue mode. The all-rounder delivered under pressure, playing a timely knock to emerge as a match-winner.

With the ball, Pakistan largely impressed. Shaheen Afridi led the attack with the authority expected of him. Salman Mirza’s disciplined spells offered stability, while Abrar Ahmed once again proved to be reliable bowler.

Pakistan majorly need improvement at the top of the order. Saim Ayub and Sahibzada Farhan, both capable of dismantling attacks in the first ten overs, failed to fire in the opener. The form of Babar Azam and Salman Agha will also be under the spotlight.

Sri Lanka’s, on the other hand, campaign began on a painful note as they crumbled to just 95 against Zimbabwe in a chase of 168. Meanwhile, there is no room for error for Sri Lanka as they head into a must-win game.

Head-to-head

Matches - 24

Pak won - 14

SL won - 10

Pakistan possible XI: Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Salman Agha (c), Fakhar Zaman, Usman Khan (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Salman Mirza, Abrar Ahmed

Sri Lanka possible XI: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kusal Perera, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Dasun Shanaka (c), Kamindu Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Eshan Malinga, Nuwan Thushara