Pakistan vs Afghanistan Prediction: Afghanistan are a stronger side going into this game

Pakistan and Afghanistan are going head to head in the Second semi finals of the Asian Games 2023 at Pingfeng Campus Cricket Field, Hangzhou on 6th October. Afghanistan are a stronger side going into this game. Who will win this game?

Qasim Akram's team secured a comfortable 68-run victory over Hong Kong in the 2nd Quarterfinal, although the match proved to be more challenging than the final score suggests. Pakistan's top order faced difficulties with the bat, necessitating a rescue effort from the tailenders. Akram is determined to lead his team to a stronger batting performance in their quest for a spot in the final.

Omair Yousuf and Mirza Baig bear the responsibility of providing a solid opening partnership, mindful of the threat posed by Afghanistan's new ball bowlers. Pakistan's middle order experienced a setback in the previous game, underscoring the importance of improved contributions from Haider Ali, Qasim Akram, and Rohail Nazir. With depth in their batting lineup, the team looks to Khushdil Shah, Aamer Jamal, and Asif Ali to make significant contributions.

Pakistan's bowling unit displayed excellence against Hong Kong, and they anticipate strong showings from Arshad Iqbal and Arafat Minhas with the new ball. The experienced bowler Khushdil Shah is expected to shine during the middle overs, partnering effectively with Aamer Jamal. Akram and Sufiyan Muqeem bring variety to the team's bowling attack.

Qasim Akram (c), Asif Ali, Haider Ali, Mirza Tahir Baig, Arshad Iqbal, Aamer Jamal, Arafat Minhas, Sufiyan Muqeem, Rohail Nazir (wk), Khushdil Shah, Omair Yousuf

Gulbadin Naib's team clinched a hard-fought 8-run victory over Sri Lanka in a thrilling contest. Afghanistan encountered batting difficulties, managing a modest total of 116 runs, but their disciplined bowling display ultimately saved the day. With the presence of more seasoned players in their squad, Naib is determined to exploit this advantage and secure a victory against Pakistan.

Mohammad Shahzad and Sediqullah Atal faced challenges at the top of the order in the previous game and will be eager to establish a substantial opening partnership. Noor Ali Zadran, coming off a match-winning performance, seeks to build crucial partnerships with Shahidullah Kamal and Naib. The team also relies on the firepower of Karim Janat, Sharafuddin Ashraf, and Afsar Zazai.

Afghanistan's bowlers gained confidence following their impressive performances in the last match. They are counting on early breakthroughs from Fareed Ahmad Malik and Naib. With the seasoned duo of Qais Ahmed and Zahir Khan, Afghanistan aims to capitalize on their expertise. Additionally, Sharafuddin Ashraf and Karim Janat are expected to make valuable contributions to the bowling effort.

Gulbadin Naib (c), Mohammad Shahzad (wk), Sediqullah Atal, Afsar Zazai, Noor Ali Zadran, Shahidullah Kamal, Karim Janat, Sharafuddin Ashraf, Fareed Ahmad Malik, Zahir Khan, Qais Ahmad

On October 6, the Hangzhou weather forecast suggests partial overcast conditions, creating a favorable environment for bowlers. Nevertheless, the pitch itself remains flat, providing an excellent batting surface, with the ball coming onto the bat smoothly. Teams opting to bat first will aim to reach a total of 200 runs to establish a sense of security.

The Pingfeng Campus Cricket Field in Hangzhou is a compact venue with short square boundaries, allowing batsmen to freely execute their shots. The pitch offers consistent bounce and pace, offering some early assistance for fast bowlers. However, spinners might encounter challenges due to the reduced boundary dimensions.

Given the small ground dimensions and the trend of high-scoring matches observed in the tournament, the team chasing a target tends to hold an advantage. Considering the pressure associated with setting a competitive total, the team winning the toss is likely to opt for bowling first.

Despite having a relatively inexperienced side and facing batting struggles in the previous game, Pakistan presents a formidable challenge. Afghanistan, with its seasoned players and a potent bowling attack, holds a slight edge in this high-pressure contest.