Match Overview:
- Teams: Canada vs Pakistan
- Location: New York
- Start Time: 10:30 AM local
Can Pakistan, the 2022 finalists, keep their hopes alive?
In the frantic pace of the T20 World Cup 2024, there's little time for reflection. Pakistan, reeling from a painful defeat against India, have to put their sorrows on hold. This setback will undoubtedly linger in their memories long after the tournament ends, but right now, there's no time to dwell on it. With just under two days to recover from their blundered chase, Babar Azam's team must gather their strength to face Canada. They were aware that they would have to tackle two matches within three days, but midway through the chase against India, it seemed like a blessing in disguise. A victory over India would have propelled them with momentum to counter the earlier loss to the USA. However, the scenario now is different. Babar and his dispirited team must rally themselves for the game against Canada just to keep their tournament hopes alive for a bit longer.
Canada’s Perspective
Canada, on the other hand, finds itself in the unfamiliar position of leading in the standings over their more illustrious opponents. If not for Aaron Jones' explosive performance in the opening match, Saad Bin Zafar’s squad would be entering this contest undefeated. They displayed admirable resilience by bouncing back from that initial loss to outperform Ireland convincingly.
Canada’s first game showed their batting depth, which made them capable of posting formidable scores. The second match highlighted their bowling prowess, effectively defending a modest total of 137 against Ireland. Coupled with their exceptional fielding, this team has shown they possess both the skill and determination to challenge any opponent in Group A. Against a Pakistan team still nursing their wounds, Canada might never get a better chance to deliver a decisive blow.
Form Guide
- Canada: WLLLL
- Pakistan: LLLLW (most recent first)
Players to Watch
For Pakistan, all eyes will be on how Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan start their innings. Following criticism for their conservative approach against India, both players are expected to adopt a more aggressive strategy against Canada. Whether batting first or second, the duo is likely to aim for a fast start, hoping to establish one of their renowned partnerships characterised by dynamic stroke play. This aggressive approach, however, also provides Canada with an opportunity to capitalise early and put pressure on Pakistan's fragile middle order.
Nicholas Kirton, Canada’s 26-year-old Barbados-born talent, has proven to be a vital asset. After a strong performance in a warm-up game against Nepal, Kirton continued his impressive form with scores of 51 and 49 against the USA and Ireland, respectively. His elegant and versatile shot-making, combined with his wristy play, makes him a challenging batsman to bowl to. On the unpredictable New York pitch, if Kirton can deliver another standout innings, he will pose a significant threat to Pakistan.
Team News
Pakistan's options for changing their line up are limited due to no new injury concerns. There is a possibility of Saim Ayub being included, which could mean either Usman Khan or Shadab Khan might be left out.
Pakistan's Probable XI:
1. Mohammad Rizwan (wk)
2. Saim Ayub
3. Babar Azam (capt)
4. Fakhar Zaman
5. Shadab Khan/Usman Khan
6. Iftikhar Ahmed
7. Imad Wasim
8. Shaheen Shah Afridi
9. Naseem Shah
10. Haris Rauf
11. Mohammad Amir
Canada, buoyed by their win over Ireland, is likely to retain their successful lineup.
Canada's Probable XI:
1. Aaron Johnson
2. Navneet Dhaliwal
3. Pargat Singh
4. Dilpreet Bajwa
5. Nicholas Kirton
6. Shreyas Movva (wk)
7. Dilon Heyliger
8. Saad Bin Zafar (capt)
9. Kaleem Sana
10. Junaid Siddiqui
11. Jeremy Gordon
Pitch and Conditions
The match is expected to be played on a fresh surface, with no interruptions from the weather anticipated. The previous rain-delayed game between India and Pakistan in New York is a reminder, but Tuesday's forecast looks clear for play.