Middle-order batsman Faheem Ashraf is expected to make his debut against India as the Pakistan team management has finalised a 12-men squad for the high-voltage ICC Champions Trophy match against India.
“Fast bowler Junaid Khan, middle order batsman Haris Sohail and top order player Fakhar Zaman will sit on the bench and won’t play the match,” Pakistan`s Coach Mickey Arthur said. “We have finalised 12, will decide on final 11 in the morning after having a look at the wicket,” Arthur told media at Edgbaston.
There is likely to be a tie between Shadab Khan and Faheem Ashraf for inclusion in final 11 for the big match on super Sunday, however, a possible overcast condition will make Ashraf favourite to make his ODI debut tomorrow.
Arthur said that team Pakistan have prepared their strategy against Kohli-led India.
Speaking on the occasion, skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed said that the pressure tomorrow will be on India rather than Pakistan.
“We are a number 8 team. There is no pressure on us, people will be seeing us playing modern cricket,” he said. “Shoaib Malik and Muhammad Hafeez have shared their experiences with the young Pakistani players.”
Sarafarz Ahmed also said that as Wahab Riaz is a senior strike bowler, he was given priority over Junaid Khan.