England look to extend streak in final T20 against Pakistan
England look to extend streak in final T20 against Pakistan
(Web Desk) - England have won each of their last five T20I series – including one-offs – and, after winning the previous match against Pakistan, they have a chance to continue that run.
The third T20 between both teams is set to be played in Old Trafford Stadium, Manchester on Tuesday. It’s been over two years since England lost a T20 series and they appear primed to add to their winning streak.
With the first match having been washed out, Pakistan, the current No.4-ranked side in the ICC T20 team rankings, are looking to find ways to counter the potent England batting order in a bid to level the series.
Pakistan may consider bringing in Wahab Riaz, whose experience and ability to bowl pace variations, might come in handy. Moreover, if Shaheen Afridi, who has played each game on the tour so far, is given a rest, the 20-year-old Mohammad Hasnain might also be an option to consider.
England’s bowling was unable to make a breakthrough early in Pakistan’s innings in the second T20, and David Willey, with his ability to swing the new ball, might be in the reckoning for the third match.
While the first T20I had to be abandoned mid-way due to rain, the second was played under mostly clear skies and the forecast looks promising for the series finale as well. Another run-fest might be on the cards in Manchester.
After a steady fifty from skipper Babar Azam at the top of the order, Muhammad Hafeez took the attack to the England bowlers, smashing a 36-ball 69, to power Pakistan to a seemingly imposing 195/4.
Jonny Bairstow and Tom Banton made a blazing start to the chase scoring at over 10 an over when both men were dismissed off successive deliveries in the seventh over by Shadab Khan with the score on 66. But the twin breakthrough provided little respite as Dawid Malan and captain Eoin Morgan wreaked havoc. Morgan was particularly destructive, smashing six fours and four sixes in his 33-ball 66, which helped England ease past the line with five balls to spare.
Speaking after the match, England Captain Eoin Morgan said that the last two years in international cricket are his best numbers to date. He said that if he can combine a little of that form with his experience, it will go a long way to winning games.
On the other hand, Pakistan skipper Babar Azam said that his team stuck to its plans while batting, but couldn’t bowl well. He gave credit to Malan and Morgan for their exceptional performances.
