Pakistan’s advantage
- The opening combination
Pakistan were looking for an opening duo after the departure of Aamer Sohail and Saeed Anwar and they finally have one in Imam-ul-Haq and Fakhar Zaman after years of testing and dropping. The duo posted the highest opening partnership in ODIs of 304 runs against Zimbabwe and they may be the biggest threat to India.
2. Fiery bowling attack
Pakistan thumped India on the back of their impressive bowling attack in 2017 Champions trophy final and they will again come hard at Indian batting line-up with untested middle order. Hasan Ali has been instrumental for Pakistan, being the highest wicket taker from 2016 in the middle overs. Mohammad Amir’s fiery first spell will be the biggest weapon of destruction for Pakistan.
3. Home-Like advantage
In their adopted home, the crowd support will be backing the boys in green to pip India. Home advantage is always a factor in cricket and this will be the biggest advantage for Sarfraz Ahmed and company.
Verdict
India looks half a side in the absence of Virat Kohli and factors like- Less experience in UAE, Problems in middle order and Pakistan’s impressive record in UAE gives latter team the advantage.
For the first time in 10 years, Pakistan will start as favourites against India but Rohit Sharma and company will surely put up a fight to dismantle the “New Look Pakistan”.
The match is schedule to take place at Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai on 19th September(Wednesday) from 5 PM (IST)
What’s your prediction. Tell us in the comments below
