Pakistan have long been a powerhouse in T20 cricket, boasting a blend of raw talent and seasoned performers. They were the finalists in the 2022 T20 World Cup, showcasing their ability to compete at the highest level. As they prepare for the 2024 edition, Pakistan aims to go one step further and clinch the title. With a balanced squad comprising explosive batters, reliable all-rounders, and lethal bowlers, Pakistan is poised to be a formidable contender. Here’s a look at the predicted playing XI that Pakistan will rely on to achieve T20 World Cup glory in 2024.

1) Muhammad Rizwan

Mohammad Rizwan is a consistent and dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman known for his ability to anchor the innings while accelerating the run rate when needed. His excellent footwork and wide range of strokes make him a key asset at the top of the order. Rizwan’s ability to read the game and adapt his batting style to different situations is crucial for Pakistan’s success. With an impressive record of 3180 runs at an average of 50 in 96 T20 matches, Rizwan’s consistency and ability to score big runs make him a formidable force in Pakistan’s batting lineup.

2) Saim Ayub

Saim Ayub is a young and promising opening batter who brings a fearless approach to the crease. His aggressive style and natural flair for stroke play can provide Pakistan with the quick starts needed in T20 cricket. Ayub’s ability to take on the bowlers from the outset makes him an exciting prospect for the team. In his budding T20 career spanning 20 matches, Ayub has amassed 284 runs at a strike rate of 130, showcasing his potential to make significant contributions at the international level.

3) Babar Azam (Captain)

Babar Azam, the captain and batting mainstay of the team, is renowned for his elegant stroke play and impeccable timing. His leadership on and off the field has been instrumental in guiding Pakistan to numerous victories. In the 2024 T20 World Cup, Babar’s ability to stabilize the innings and lead by example will be pivotal for Pakistan’s campaign. With an illustrious T20 career spanning 117 matches, Azam has amassed 3955 runs at an average of over 40, establishing himself as one of the premier batters in the format. His consistency and ability to score runs under pressure make him a linchpin in Pakistan’s batting lineup.

4) Fakhar Zaman

Fakhar Zaman is an explosive left-handed batsman known for his ability to dismantle bowling attacks with his aggressive style. His experience and knack for playing big innings in crucial matches make him a valuable player in the middle order. Zaman’s powerful hitting can change the course of a game in a matter of overs. With a wealth of experience in 86 T20 matches, Zaman has accumulated 1761 runs at a strike rate of 132, underscoring his ability to score quickly and make a significant impact on the game.

5) Shadab Khan

Shadab Khan is a versatile all-rounder who contributes significantly with both bat and ball. His leg-spin bowling provides crucial breakthroughs, especially in the middle overs, while his batting adds depth to the lineup. Shadab’s energy and enthusiasm on the field also make him a vital asset in the team’s dynamic. With an impressive record in 98 matches, Shadab has claimed 107 wickets with his leg-spin and scored 632 runs at a strike rate of 141. His ability to contribute effectively with both bat and ball makes him a key player in Pakistan’s T20 setup.

6) Azam Khan (WK)

Azam Khan is a powerful wicketkeeper-batsman known for his big-hitting abilities. His ability to clear the boundaries with ease makes him an ideal candidate for the middle order. Azam’s skills behind the stumps add another layer of reliability to Pakistan’s fielding unit. Despite his limited opportunities, Azam has showcased his explosive potential in 11 T20 matches, scoring 77 runs at a strike rate of over 150. His specific role as a finisher adds depth to Pakistan’s batting lineup, providing the team with the firepower needed to accelerate towards the end of the innings.

7) Iftikhar Ahmed

Iftikhar Ahmed is a dependable all-rounder who offers solidity in the batting lineup and a useful off-spin option with the ball. His calm demeanour and ability to handle pressure situations make him a valuable player in the lower middle order. Iftikhar’s versatility allows him to adapt his game according to the team’s needs. In his T20 career spanning 62 matches, Iftikhar has scored 931 runs at a strike rate of 130. Additionally, he has proven to be a handy bowler, maintaining an economy rate under 8.5 while picking up 8 crucial wickets. His ability to contribute effectively with both bat and ball adds balance to the Pakistan team.

8) Imad Wasim

Imad Wasim is a left-arm spinning all-rounder known for his economical bowling and hard-hitting lower-order batting. His ability to bowl tight overs in the powerplay and middle overs makes him a key component of Pakistan’s bowling attack. Imad’s experience and composure in crucial moments are invaluable to the team. In his 71 T20Is, Imad has showcased his versatility, scoring 513 runs at a strike rate of over 130. Moreover, his bowling prowess is evident as he has taken 68 wickets at an economy of under 7, highlighting his effectiveness in containing runs and picking up crucial breakthroughs for Pakistan.

9) Shaheen Afridi

Shaheen Afridi is a left-arm fast bowler renowned for his ability to swing the ball both ways at high speed. His knack for taking early wickets can put the opposition on the back foot from the outset. Shaheen’s pace and aggression make him a spearhead of Pakistan’s bowling attack, especially in T20 cricket. In his 64 matches, Shaheen has been a consistent wicket-taker, amassing 88 wickets with his fiery pace and lethal swing bowling. His ability to strike early and disrupt the opposition’s momentum makes him a formidable force in Pakistan’s bowling lineup.

10) Muhammad Amir

Mohammad Amir is an experienced fast bowler known for his skill in swinging the ball and delivering in high-pressure situations. His ability to bowl yorkers and slower balls with precision makes him a valuable death bowler. Amir’s experience and tactical understanding are crucial for Pakistan’s bowling unit. In his T20 career spanning 58 matches, Amir has taken 64 wickets at an economy of under 8, highlighting his effectiveness in containing runs and picking up crucial wickets for Pakistan, especially during the challenging phases of the game.

11) Haris Rauf

Haris Rauf is a fast bowler known for his express pace and ability to bowl accurate yorkers. His aggressive style and capability to generate extra bounce make him a difficult bowler to face. Rauf’s ability to strike at crucial moments adds a cutting edge to Pakistan’s bowling attack. In his T20 career spanning 66 matches, Rauf has claimed 90 wickets, showcasing his effectiveness and impact as a strike bowler for Pakistan. His ability to consistently trouble batters and pick up wickets makes him a valuable asset in Pakistan’s quest for success in T20 cricket.

As Pakistan gears up for the T20 World Cup 2024, the blend of seasoned campaigners and exciting young talents in their squad makes them one of the most balanced teams in the competition. The combination of explosive batting, reliable all-rounders, and a potent bowling attack provides Pakistan with the tools needed to challenge for the title. With strong leadership from Babar Azam and key contributions from players like Mohammad Rizwan, Shaheen Afridi, and Shadab Khan, Pakistan will be aiming to convert their potential into a championship victory. This predicted XI offers a glimpse into the formidable unit that could lead Pakistan to T20 World Cup glory.

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