Anticipation brews as England and Pakistan gear up for their third encounter in the thrilling four-match T20I series, scheduled at the esteemed Sophia Gardens Cricket Ground in Cardiff on Tuesday (May 28).
Despite the disappointment of the inaugural match being cancelled due to adverse weather, England showcased their prowess in the second bout, securing a commanding victory by a margin of 23 runs.
With their eyes set on the horizon, both cricketing giants understand the importance of this clash as they fine-tune their strategies for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024, which is destined to captivate audiences across the USA and the West Indies.
T20I Stats and Records at Sophia Gardens Cricket Ground:
Total matches: 10
Matches won batting first: 3
Matches won bowling first: 7
Average 1st Inns scores: 145
Average 2nd Inns scores: 138
Highest total recorded: 207/3 (20 Ov) by South Africa vs England
Lowest total recorded: 89/10 (18.4 Ov) by Pakistan vs England
Highest score chased: 175/3 (19.2 Ov) by England vs Pakistan
Lowest score defended: 182/5 (20 Ov) by England vs Australia
ENG vs PAK: Sophia Gardens Cricket Ground Pitch Report:
At Sophia Gardens Cricket Ground, the pitch boasts lively pace and bounce, especially during the opening overs, setting the stage for fast bowlers to shine. As the match progresses, it evolves, becoming more batting-friendly while spinners find less assistance. Yet, in the second innings, the pitch undergoes a transformation, drying out to favour spinners, adding a twist to the game. Choosing to bat first upon winning the toss is frequently a calculated strategy at this esteemed venue.
ENG vs PAK: Cardiff Weather Forecast
Tuesday’s forecast for Cardiff suggests a substantial 90% likelihood of rain. Expect cool temperatures, lingering at approximately 17 degrees Celsius, with humidity soaring to around 89%, resulting in a clammy ambience. Additionally, winds are forecasted to whip up to 26 kmph, potentially disrupting outdoor activities and intensifying the damp conditions.
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ENG vs PAK: Probable Playing XI, 3rd T20I
England: Jos Buttler (c), Phil Salt (wk), Will Jacks, Harry Brook, Jonny Bairstow, Liam Livingstone, Moeen Ali, Adil Rashid, Jofra Archer, Chris Jordan, Reece Topley
Pakistan: Saim Ayub, Mohammad Rizwan, Babar Azam (c), Fakhar Zaman, Shadab Khan, Azam Khan (wk), Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Amir
Also READ: Twitter reactions: Jos Buttler, Jofra Archer shine as England takes series lead over Pakistan
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