Predicting PAK-C’s Playing XI for the 14th Match against AUS-C in WCL 2025

As they prepare for their 14th WCL 2025 match at Grace Road, Leicester, the Pakistan Champions have the upper hand in terms of momentum against the Australia Champions. The Pakistan Champions overcame the West Indies Champions at the weekend in their previous match by 49 runs, showcasing an all-round team effort with brute force in batting, crafty bowling, and experienced captaincy. With the tournament about to enter the final series of games, this will not be just another game; it will be a statement of intent. 

Openers 

Kamran Akmal was simply outstanding in the last game, smashing a remarkable 113 off only 62 balls. His innings had everything: clean hitting, good placement, and you could see he was keeping the bowlers under relentless pressure. He did not simply open the batting; he opened the innings. At 42 years old, Akmal still has the hand speed and match awareness to dictate terms during the power play. 

Partner alongside him should be Sharjeel Khan, who contributed a rapid 21 off 14 balls against the Windies. While he did not have a long innings, it was obvious from the outset in his intent: to go hard during the first six overs! Sharjeel has prized early in the innings with his ability to clear the infield. His strike rate of 150 during the previous match would affirm that he is an attacking foil for Akmal.

Middle Order 

As captain, Hafeez slots in perfectly at number four. His innings of 23 runs off 18 balls may appear unremarkable, forgettable even, but it was a vital phase of the innings where Hafeez ensured that the momentum from the previous batsman Kamran Akmal’s dismissal didn’t stall. His T20 international career has provided him with the experience and strike rotation skills to be a consistent anchor in the middle overs.

Sohaib Maqsood undoubtedly warranted a second consecutive start. His innings of 17 runs off 13 balls never suggested headline news, but that short innings kept the run rate at a reasonable enough pace. Maqsood is known for his power-hitting style and familiarity against spin, which can take advantage of potentially slacker Australian bowlers in those middle overs phases.

All-Rounders 

Shoaib Malik is still an integral part of this Pakistan Champions puzzle in many ways. Last match, Malik could only bat for a total of 4 balls but finished with 10 not out, including a six. However, the biggest asset for Malik is his composure in a competitive match under pressure. Malik can bat, bowl, and feel lighter and useful with fitness.

Aamer Yamin also shone in many ways, especially with the ball. He had 2 wickets for 23 runs and controlled the death overs, while being a useful lower-order batter who can come in and add valuable runs if needed. These two all-rounders could sway Pakistan’s hopes in close matches, with value in multiple aspects of the match.

Bowlers 

Rumman Raees was the clear bowling standout in the last match, taking 3 wickets for only 4 runs in his 3 overs. Raees’ angle from left-arm, slow ball variations, and impeccable line had the West Indian top order in a mess. If Pakistan is to get breakthroughs early again, Raees is the man.

Sohail Tanvir also stood out with figures of 2/24 from his 4 overs. Tanvir’s back-of-the-hand deliveries and bowling at wide angles were hard to pick, especially during the middle overs. Against such aggressive batting, and with Australia’s batting not only liking pace but thriving on it as well, Tanvir’s ability to change-up will be vital.