T20: Pak may go with four specialist bowlers

As Pakistan prepares for its high-stakes T20 World Cup clash against India on Sunday in Colombo, the team is leaning towards fielding four specialist bowlers—two spinners and two pacers. Sources indicate that head coach Mike Hesson and captain Salman Ali Agha are considering including spinners Abrar Ahmed and Usman Tariq alongside fast bowlers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Salman Mirza. This strategy necessitates dropping one of the all-rounders from the trio of Shadab Khan, Muhammad Nawaz, and Faheem Ashraf. Given the match context, there is speculation that Nawaz may be excluded due to Pakistan’s need for versatility against India's left-handed batters. The batting lineup is expected to feature Saim Ayub, Sahabzada Farhan, Salman Ali Agha, Babar Azam, and Usman Khan in the top five positions. The final decision on the playing XI will depend on a last-minute assessment of the pitch at the Premadasa Stadium and weather conditions. This match will mark Pakistan’s first appearance at this venue during the tournament, despite their recent success in a T20 series against Sri Lanka. The anticipated lineup could provide a robust mix of spin and pace as Pakistan aims for victory in this crucial encounter.