This is a key battle between the rejuvenated England and Pakistan sides. Both teams suffered huge losses at the early stages of the tournament and then began their comeback story. From being returned to being on a verge of early exits from the tournaments to probable’s for the Semi-finals needs great conviction to get back to the winning ways.
England have a strong lineup of batters, on one side where some could go on an attacking mode and another side where players like Heather Knight, Natalie Sciver could balance the squad by anchoring the innings. The additional spin options in the form of Charlotte Dean has worked wonders for this team and she helped England win convincingly and got them back to be alive in the tournament. The pacers trio (Katherine Brunt, Kate Cross, Anya Shrubsole) consistency has been the pillar of their comeback. It needs to get its batting intent in place to not only attack but also to steady any possible slide in the batting order that happened in its previous match. If England win’s this match, they will knock out Pakistan from this tournament.
Pakistan made a good comeback by thrashing Windies by 8-wickets by improving their batting strength, bowlers were incredibly disciplined and the fielding unit was at its best form. Muneeba Ali is the best find of the tournament and her cover drives have lifted Pakistan’s chances to win. Her elegance, stroke play gave other players scope to the natural game. The long-pending need for Nida Dar to get back to form was also fulfilled as she got 4 wickets in the last match. Together all the factors contributed to its first win in Worldcup after 13 years. Pakistan will look to carry on this momentum filled with a huge sense of control and optimism. England will be out of contention for the semi-finals if Pakistan pulls off a stunning victory.
Pakistan should not allow the pressure to mount on and a calm approach will give them a chance to employ a good fight against England. England, the defending champions will aim to win this must-win encounter and will require them to give a complete performance from all departments.
Probable Playing XI:
PAKISTAN: Muneba Ali, Sidra Ameen, Omaima Sohail, Bismah Maroof (C), Aliya Riaz, Nida Dar, Fatima Sana, Diana Baig, Nashra Sandhu, Anam Amin, Sidra Nawaz (WK)
ENGLAND: Tammy Beaumont, Heather Knight (C), Natalie Sciver, Amy Ellen Jones (WK), Danielle Wyatt, Sophia Dunkley, Katherine Brunt, Sophie Ecclestone, Kate Cross, Charlie Dean, Anya Shrubsole
