Date: August 26, 2023
Venue: R.Premadasa Stadium, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Time: 15:00 IST
The captivating rivalry between Afghanistan and Pakistan continues as they face off in the third and final ODI of their series at the R.Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Scheduled for August 26, 2023, this encounter holds importance for both teams – Pakistan aims for a clean sweep, while Afghanistan is determined to secure a consolation win.
Thrilling Second ODI Sets the Stage
The second ODI between the two sides, held at Hambantota, was a nail-biting contest that saw Pakistan emerge victorious by a narrow margin. Imam-Ul-Haq, Babar Azam, and Shadab Khan played crucial roles for Pakistan, contributing significantly to their win. Afghanistan’s opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz showcased an exceptional performance, smashing a career-best 151 runs in the previous match.
As the teams gear up for the third ODI, all eyes are on whether Afghanistan can avoid a whitewash or if Pakistan will seal the series with a 3-0 victory.
Tournament: Afghanistan vs Pakistan in Sri Lanka, 2023
Format: ODI
Venue: R.Premadasa Stadium, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Toss Prediction: To Bat
ODI Series Analysis
Pakistan took the lead in the ODI series with a 2-0 advantage after their hard-fought victory in the second match. The close one-wicket win highlighted the competitive nature of the rivalry. While Pakistan’s batting lineup showcased depth and resilience, Afghanistan’s bowlers aim to address their shortcomings and put up an improved performance.
Team Previews
Afghanistan Preview:
Afghanistan is expected to make changes to their lineup, with Rahmat Shah and Noor Ahmad stepping in for Shahidullah Kamal and Abdul Rehman. The team’s batting responsibilities will rest on the shoulders of Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Rahmat Shah, and Hashmatullah Shahidi. In the previous match, Gurbaz’s exceptional 151-run knock stood out. The team’s bowlers, including Fazalhaq Farooqi, Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Mohammad Nabi, and Mujeeb Ur Rahman, will aim to deliver timely breakthroughs.
Pakistan Preview:
Pakistan might make three changes, including the inclusion of Mohammad Haris, Mohammad Nawaz, and Mohammad Wasim Jnr., in place of Mohammad Rizwan, Usama Mir, and Shaheen Afridi. The team’s batting lineup will rely on Babar Azam, Mohammad Haris, Fakhar Zaman, Imam-Ul-Haq, Shadab Khan, and Mohammad Nawaz. In the previous match, Imam-Ul-Haq’s 91-run contribution was pivotal. The team’s bowling attack, led by Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Wasim Jnr., Shadab Khan, and Mohammad Nawaz, will look to make early inroads.
Match Prediction
Based on recent form and performances, Pakistan enters the third ODI as the clear favorite. With players like Imam-Ul-Haq, Babar Azam, and Shadab Khan in good touch, Pakistan aims to continue its winning streak and secure a whitewash. Afghanistan, led by Hashmatullah Shahidi, is determined to avoid a series sweep and secure a consolation win.
Therefore, the prediction leans towards Pakistan clinching victory in the third and final ODI of the series at Hambantota. Cricket enthusiasts are in for another thrilling encounter as both teams battle it out to stake their claim in this captivating rivalry.
