Published: Aug 24, 2016, 05:42 PM (IST)
Edited: Aug 24, 2016, 05:42 PM (IST)
Pakistan will enter this ODI series with enhanced reputation. Crowned No.1 in Test cricket, Pakistan now enter a format where they are placed at No.9 and will be desperately looking to climb up. However, it is no more Misbah-ul-Haq’s Pakistan that we have been going gaga over; it is time for Azhar Ali to dictate the proceedings.
England are placed at No.5 in the ODI rankings but Eoin Morgan’s men are the most improved side since the ICC World Cup 2015. England recently beat Sri Lanka in the ODI series and seem to have the upper hand. Also, they have the home advantage. In Alex Hales, Jason Roy, Eoin Morgan, Jos Buttler and Ben Stokes, England have their batting sorted. Moeen Ali and Chris Woakes’ form is a plus and the return of Mark Wood, who was exceptional in the domestic T20 final make the hosts a dominant opponent.
For Pakistan, the experience of Misbah and Younis Khan is set to be filled by Shoaib Malik in the middle order. Sharjeel Khan was unstoppable against Ireland last week but this will be a different challenge. The return of old warhorse Umar Gul, who will bowl alongside Mohammad Amir, Wahab Riaz and Yasir Shah, makes the bowling look strong. However, batting is an area they will be concerned about.
The wicket at Ageas Bowl is usually a belter and this contest will be all about England’s batting against Pakistan’s bowling. The Test series was exciting and the ODIs promise much more. No doubt, England hold the edge but in this game of uncertainty, you never know.
The match starts at 6.30 pm India time, you can watch the match live on Star Sports, and the streaming is available in the Star Sports website. Click here to see.
