Having pocketed the series with an unassailable 2-0 series lead, Pakistan can afford to experiment with their line-up and play with more freedom against Zimbabwe in the 3rd ODI. They can go on top of the ICC Men's World Cup Super League points table with a win.
Zimbabwe has delivered in bits and pieces but there has not been a perfect team effort. The top order failed again. The in-form Brendan Taylor hit 36 while Sean Williams rediscovered his lost touch with a splendid 75.
Pakistan will be mighty pleased with its bowling effort. Newcomer, Muhammad Musa who replaced the experienced Wahab Riaz got two wickets at an excellent economy rate while spinner, Iftikhar Ahmed troubled the middle order and bagged a five-wicket haul.
Imam-Ul Haq once again gave a strong start hitting 49 while skipper Babar Azam hit the ground running with an unbeaten 77.
Team News
Pakistan can hand Abdullah Shafique his debut and young pacer Mohammad Hasnain can be given a chance. Middle-order batsman, Khushdil Shah and leg spinner Usman Qadir would be in the reckoning too. Fakhar Zaman and vice-captain Shadab Khan are also waiting on the bench. Zimbabwe can pick Ryan Burl to strengthen their middle order and can take the seasoned Elton Chigumbura instead of an out-of-form Carl Mumba.
Pitch and Conditions
With Rawalpindi aiding the pacers with more movement, the new ball should still do something. The weather is expected to be clear for the whole day.
Probable Playing XI
Pakistan: Abid Ali, Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam(c), Haider Ali, Mohammad Rizwan(w), Khushdil Shah, Zafar Gohar/Shadab Khan, Shaheen Afridi/Wahab Riaz/Faheem Ashraf, Usman Qadir, Muhammad Hasnain, Iftikhar Ahmed.
Zimbabwe: Brian Chari, Chamu Chibhabha(c), Craig Ervine, Brendan Taylor(w), Sean Williams, Wesley Madhevere, Sikandar Raza, Ryan Burl/Elton Chigumbura, Tendai Chisoro, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava
Key Battles
Imam-Ul Haq vs Tendai Chisoro
Chisoro dismissed Imam in the last match. His slow left-arm spin can be effective in containing the swashbuckling Imam who is known for his flamboyant stroke-play.
Sean Williams vs Iftikhar Ahmed
Iftikhar's scalped Sean's wicket in the second ODI. Sean was impressive as he never let his guard down with a strike rate of 107. Iftikhar's handy off-cutters put the breaks on Zimbabwe. He also bowled two maiden overs.
Prediction
Pakistan will look to play aggressive cricket and aim for a clean sweep. Zimbabwe needs to pull up its socks to avoid the humiliation of a whitewash.
Cricwizz predicts Pakistan to win the match and win the series 3-0.
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