Pakistan have opted to bowl first in the tri-series final against Sri Lanka in Lahore, mindful of the dew forecast for later in the evening. Captain Shaheen Afridi explained that the decision was influenced by the expected conditions that might hinder the side fielding second.
Both teams have made changes to their line-ups. Pakistan’s key player, Shadab Khan, who was instrumental in their victory over England on Sunday, is sidelined due to illness. Seam-bowling allrounder Faheem Ashraf steps into his role.
Sri Lanka, on the other hand, have bolstered their spin options by bringing Maheesh Theekshana into the squad. He replaces seamer Eshan Malinga, who proved costly in their previous encounter. The Sri Lankan team enters the final with a balanced approach, fielding two spinners and two pacers, a tactic requiring their top-order to contribute the remaining ten overs, consistent with their strategy in the series.
Despite suffering a defeat to Sri Lanka earlier this week, Pakistan remains the favourite, having secured three out of their four matches. Their sole loss was when they batted first against Sri Lanka.
Here are the teams for the final match:
Pakistan: Maaz Sadaqat, Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Saad Baig (wk), Salman Agha, Hasan Nawaz, Arafat Minhas, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Shah Afridi (capt), Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf
Sri Lanka: Kamindu Mendis, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis (capt, wk), Pavan Rathnayake, Sahan Arachchige, Janith Liyanage, Dasun Shanaka, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka
The stage is set for an intriguing final, with both teams making strategic adjustments in pursuit of triumph in the tri-series.
