Pakistan finished third in pool B after beating Ireland by 7 wickets, and have comfortably qualified for quarterfinals where they will lock horns with the Kangaroos at Adelaide Oval on March 20th. Although the initial poor performance against India and West Indies put doubts on their ability to even qualify for the next round, their promising comeback with four back to back wins, has given a new hope to the fans back home.
Australia as a top ranking team, with an added advantage of a home crowd, is considered favourites by the majority to win the quarterfinals against Pakistan. They have a balanced team with stable batting line and solid bowling attack. Paceman Mitchell Starc is the leading wicket-taker at the tournament with 16 wickets, who can prove destructive for Pakistani batting line up. Additionally, with their top-notch fielding, there is hardly a chance of misfielding.
However on the other hand, after the induction of Sarfraz Ahmed, a professional wicket keeper and a promising batsman, and with their dangerous bowling attack, one can never underestimate and undermine the Pakistani team. Additionally, their four straight victories in the world cup is a proof that they have the talent and capability to put any team under pressure. Aussies will surely be on the edge and seriously preparing for this crucial match.
The dilemma with Pakistani team is that their batting line collapses and they drop catches when they come under pressure. Also, they are especially notorious for not being able to chase runs, especially when it’s a pressure match like the upcoming quarterfinals against Australia.
Nonetheless, the most important factor would choosing the right XI and coming with proper planning to capitalize on their skills. Pakistani team has the chance to progress to the semifinals if they played with a positive frame of mind. One can only hope that the team management will not take any risk and will choose the right combination against Australia.