Predicting PAK-C’s Playing XI for the 9th Match against SA-C in WCL 2025

Heading into Match 9 of the WCL 2025, Pakistan Champions (PAK-C) find themselves in an intriguing position. A tight 5-run victory over England Champions has showcased their ability to hold their nerve under pressure, but they now face a more well-rounded South Africa Champions (SA-C) side that poses a tougher, more complete challenge. They will be aiming to take that momentum to Leicester. This is not just another game but an opportunity to make a statement. Although Pakistan’s top order did not fire, individual brilliance saved the day. So, the big question is what will the XI look like?

Openers

PAK-C’s top order in the last match—Kamran Akmal and Sharjeel Khan—did not work, scoring only 8 and 12 respectively. However, both players bring distinct explosive qualities. Sharjeel is a dangerous left-handed batsman who can go through any bowling attack even with a slow start. His attacking mentality at the top is essential in facing SA-C’s experienced pace attack.

Kamran Akmal brings experience, the acceptance of playing more innovative/strange shots—even if he put on some really bad timing in the last match—and once again, experience. With few alternatives and potential fireworks, these two will likely be kept in a crisis, but the pressure will be on for them to get off to a flying start.

Middle Order

It was Hafeez who stood tall in the last game, producing a smooth and vital 54 off 34 deliveries. He was classy in strokeplay and composed under pressure, which not only anchored the innings but saw him awarded Player of the Match. Hafeez, being a seasoned campaigner, is the pillar that the batting can revolve around. He will be important against the spinners and seamers for South Africa.

Partnering Hafeez through the middle overs, Yamin unleashed a brisk and purposeful 27 off just 13 deliveries. Yamin’s late hitting allowed Pakistan to come past the 160 mark, and his ability to accelerate without much opportunity to settle is rare. Yamin will be important to the versatility of this middle-order unit.

All-Rounders

Even though Shoaib Malik did not contribute much with the bat (1 off 5), he offers tremendous value in terms of how he bowls off-spin in addition to experience. He bowled pretty economically in the last game (3-0-15-0) and tied the other team down in parts of the middle overs. Malik’s leadership and cricketing nous are vital.

Aamer Yamin, being an all-rounder, not only helped with the bat but also got an important wicket with the ball. The value he brings to both is important once again. With Malik controlling the tempo of the game and Yamin being able to shift gears, PAK-C’s all-around department looks solid and dangerous.

Bowlers

Rumman Raees was the most impressive bowler against England with figures of 4-0-14-1. He had control of his length and movement of the ball, rendering him unplayable during the powerplay, and his form makes him a must-pick against SA-C’s top-heavy lineup.

Sohail Tanvir, admittedly a little expensive (4-0-41-1), had the key wicket of Phil Mustard. His variations and left-arm angle should trouble South Africa’s batters on a slower track at Leicester. Tanvir can bowl with variation and pace, and is more than useful.

If the openers fire and the bowlers tighten their disciplines, then PAK-C could achieve back-to-back wins. The focus now shifts to Leicester, where legends will again do battle for pride, glory, and points.