Usman Khan Included; Shaheen Afridi Dropped? Pakistan's Strongest XI For 3rd T20I vs NZ

 

Pakistan's Strongest XI For 3rd T20I vs New Zealand

Pakistan faced another setback as New Zealand clinched a five-wicket victory at University Oval in Dunedin. Batting first, Pakistan managed only 135 runs, which the BlackCaps chased down in just 13.1 overs, securing a 2-0 lead in the series.

As Pakistan enters a must-win third T20I in Auckland, an optimal playing XI selection is crucial. Here’s an in-depth analysis of their best possible lineup.

Omair Yousuf Should Replace Hasan Nawaz

Hasan Nawaz has struggled with form, registering consecutive ducks in the series. A more technically sound option is Omair Yousuf, who boasts superior T20 numbers.

Criterion	Omair Yousuf	Hasan Nawaz
Innings	38	23
Runs	1024	492
Average	33.03	21.39
Strike Rate	131.45	129.47

Omair’s consistency and ability to handle New Zealand's pace attack could provide stability at the top, allowing Mohammad Haris to play his natural attacking game.

Should Pakistan Drop Shaheen Afridi?

Shaheen Afridi has been uncharacteristically ineffective in the first two T20Is, failing to take a wicket and conceding runs at an economy of 9.60.

Criterion	Data
Innings	2
Wickets	0
Economy	9.60

Despite his struggles, Pakistan lacks a solid backup option, making it imperative to persist with the left-arm pacer in this crucial fixture.

Bowling Adjustments: Jahandad & Mohammad Ali Out, Abbas & Abrar In?

Jahandad Khan and Mohammad Ali have been expensive and largely ineffective in the series. Their economy rates are a major concern:

• Jahandad Khan: 1 wicket in 2 innings, economy 18.00

• Mohammad Ali: 1 wicket in 2 innings, economy 11.80

To strengthen the bowling attack, Pakistan should consider replacing them with Abbas Afridi and Abrar Ahmed. Abbas brings aggression and wicket-taking ability, while Abrar’s spin could be a valuable asset against the BlackCaps.

Usman Khan at 3; Should Salman Ali Agha Demote Himself?

Usman Khan has demonstrated his prowess at number 3, which makes a compelling case for his inclusion in the XI.

Criterion	Runs	Average/SR
Usman at 3	392	98.0/161.3
Usman at 4	105	35.0/119.3
Salman at 3	322	21.5/115.8
Salman at 4	169	28.2/142.0

While Salman Ali Agha played a strong 46-run knock in the last match, a reshuffle in the batting order could optimize the team's performance. Moving Usman to number 3 and Salman to number 4 would ensure stability and firepower in the middle overs.

Pakistan’s Strongest Playing XI For 3rd T20I vs NZ

1. Omair Yousuf

2. Mohammad Haris (WK)

3. Usman Khan

4. Agha Salman (C)

5. Shadab Khan

6. Abdul Samad/Irfan Khan Niazi

7. Khushdil Shah

8. Abbas Afridi

9. Shaheen Afridi

10. Haris Rauf

11. Abrar Ahmed

This lineup blends experience with fresh energy, providing Pakistan with the best chance to bounce back and keep the series alive.