Pakistan is set to encounter a red-hot South African team in the 26th match of the 2023 World Cup. Pakistan currently holds the 5th position in the points table, while South Africa sits comfortably in the 2nd spot. Babar Azam is under tremendous pressure, having lost three out of the five matches he has played in the 2023 World Cup. The defeat against Afghanistan would have been particularly painful for the team.
Haris Rauf is likely to be excluded from the match against South Africa in Chennai. The Chennai pitch favors spinners, and Haris Rauf’s current form is not up to par. He has been the most costly bowler for Pakistan in the 2023 World Cup, as exemplified by his performance against Australia where he conceded 59 runs in just four overs. Opponents appear to adopt an aggressive approach when facing him.
Reintroducing Mohammad Nawaz into the lineup would not only bolster the batting order but also provide a valuable all-round option. Reports from the Pakistan dressing room suggest that they are dissatisfied with Haris Rauf’s performance and are considering replacing him with either Mohammad Nawaz or Zaman Khan.
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Pakistan is in a do-or-die situation in the 2023 World Cup. They must secure victories in all of their remaining matches to keep their tournament hopes alive. Their upcoming opponents include South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Bangladesh.