Pakistan face a tough task with two clear objectives. First, they must defeat Sri Lanka national cricket team — and do so by a specific margin. If they bat first, they need to win by at least 64 runs. If they chase, they must reach the target within 13.1 overs. Only then can they overtake New Zealand national cricket team on net run rate and secure a place in the semifinals.

It is a demanding challenge. To navigate it successfully, former South African cricketer Faf du Plessis and former Pakistan players Mohammad Amir and Ahmed Shehzad have offered tactical advice.

Du Plessis believes Fakhar Zaman could be Pakistan’s trump card. He suggested promoting Fakhar to number three in the batting order, noting that the left-hander has previously succeeded at both three and four. Fakhar made his first appearance of this T20 World Cup in the recent match against England, scoring 25 off 16 balls after coming in at number five.

Du Plessis also emphasized the need for an aggressive mindset. He said Pakistan must select a side capable of playing positive cricket and decide in advance whether they are preparing for a rain-shortened 13-over chase or planning to bowl the opposition out. Team selection, he argued, should reflect that strategy.

Amir, meanwhile, wants Fakhar to open the innings. Speaking on a television program, he proposed a top order of Sahibzada Farhan, Fakhar Zaman, Salman Agha and Khawaja Nafay, with Usman Khan included as wicketkeeper. He also suggested adjustments in the bowling lineup, potentially bringing in Abrar Ahmed if Saim is left out.

Ahmed Shehzad echoed the call for bold changes, including the possibility of leaving out Babar Azam. He argued that Pakistan should field specialists suited to the specific demands of the match rather than relying on reputation, suggesting that Nafay could replace Babar to strengthen overall balance.

The match will take place in Pallekele, where spin bowlers are expected to receive assistance. That could pose problems for Pakistan, whose batters have struggled against spin. Since the 2024 T20 World Cup, at least four Pakistani players who have faced 250 or more deliveries have strike rates below 125 against spin — including Babar Azam, Salman Agha, Usman Khan and even Fakhar Zaman.

Sri Lanka and Pakistan are set to meet in this crucial Super Eight clash at 7:30pm Bangladesh time.