What can be Pakistan's playing XI for ODI World Cup 2023?

Pakistan is on the verge of unveiling its 15-member playing XI for the eagerly anticipated ICC World Cup 2023. Reports from Pakistani media reveal that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), along with the selection panel and team management, are in the final stages of shaping the squad for the prestigious tournament.

Just a short while ago, Pakistan appeared to be a well-oiled machine in the realm of One Day Internationals (ODIs). They showcased their prowess with a commendable 3-0 triumph over Afghanistan and entered the recently concluded Asia Cup 2023 as the top-ranked team globally. However, crushing defeats at the hands of India and Sri Lanka exposed several chinks in their armor, potentially necessitating alterations to the squad ahead of the World Cup.

The loss against India laid bare Pakistan’s vulnerabilities, including a struggle against spin and a fragile batting order. Even in the encounter with Sri Lanka, Pakistan’s spinners couldn’t make a significant impact, casting doubt on Shadab Khan’s place in the team due to his lackluster performance in the Asia Cup.

Pakistan’s prospective ICC World Cup 2023 squad is expected to undergo notable transformations, according to a Cricket Pakistan report. Players like Mohammad Haris, Usama Mir, Mohammad Wasim Jr., and Faheem Ashraf may find themselves excluded from the final lineup.

The report further suggests that fast bowler Hasan Ali, who missed the Asia Cup due to injury, and the enigmatic spinner Abrar Ahmed, yet to make his ODI debut, could secure spots in the squad. Despite his recent struggles, Fakhar Zaman is likely to retain his position, and Shadab Khan may receive another opportunity to prove his worth.

Even out-of-favor all-rounder Imad Wasim is under consideration, despite not featuring in an ODI since 2020, due to his valuable experience in international cricket. Imad’s dual role as a handy spinner and lower-order batter has sparked discussions among the selectors.