Pakistan vs England: ‘Utilising the Powerplay to grab as many wickets will be essential for the match’ : Babar Azam

The blistering pace of Pakistan’s new-ball bowling attack take on England’s blazing opening pair in a head-to-head battle that could well decide the T20 World Cup final.

Pakistan vs England: England’s openers stormed to a ten-wicket win in Adelaide over India, with Alex Hales and Jos Buttler breaking records in their blitz. Buttler and Hales have set the tone with the bat, and boast the best average Powerplay in the tournament, an impressive 52 runs for the loss of one wicket.

The pairs’ 170* is not only the highest opening partnership in the Men’s tournament history, but it’s also the highest partnership for any wicket. Though they come across their stiffest opposition with the ball: Pakistan.

Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah are the most impactful side with the ball in the first six overs, on average taking two wickets for just 37 runs. Pakistan captain Babar Azam did downplay the significance when asked how important the first six overs will be with the ball for Pakistan.

Even when you bat, you want to set a great pace for the upcoming batsmen. We will try to maintain and continuously build our momentum hence ensuring better performance.”

Neither Shaheen nor Buttler played in the recent seven-match series between the two finalists. But with the bowler looking in prime form and Buttler showing intent from the off against the swinging new ball, this has all the hallmarks of a blockbuster clash.