Pakistan vs Afghanistan Prediction: Afghanistan has hunted down many of the favourites and can dampen their neighbour's semi-final hopes

Pakistan and Afghanistan are going head to head in the 22nd game of the ICC World Cup 2023 at M. A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai, India on 23rd October. Afghanistan has hunted down many of the favourites and can dampen their neighbour's semi-final hopes. Who will win this game?

Pakistan began the tournament on a strong note, securing victories in their first two matches. However, the team has encountered a rough patch in the past week, suffering consecutive losses to India and Australia. Consequently, they have slipped out of the top 4 positions on the table. Despite several matches remaining, Pakistan must elevate their performance to prevent further decline.

Abdullah Shafique, who has taken over Fakhar Zaman's position at the top of the batting order, has justified the selectors' faith in him. He notched a brisk half-century against a formidable Australian bowling attack, a feat that should boost the young cricketer's confidence.

Imam Ul-Haq, who was experiencing a lean period, managed to reverse his fortunes on Friday by scoring a half-century. While the form of middle-order batsmen such as Babar Azam, Iftikhar Ahmed, and Mohammad Nawaz remains a concern, Mohammad Rizwan has once again demonstrated his reliability and is the top run-scorer in the tournament thus far.

Pakistan's bowling department requires improvement, as it has been one of the major letdowns in their performance. Although Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Hasan Ali have collectively amassed 24 wickets, they have proven to be excessively expensive, each conceding over six runs per over.

Given the absence of a formidable spin attack, the role of the seamers takes on greater significance, necessitating increased discipline in terms of line and length. Usama Mir has recuperated from his injury, and it will be intriguing to observe the role he assumes in the upcoming matches.

Imam ul Haq, Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam (C), Mohammad Rizwan (WK), Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Nawaz, Hasan Ali, Usama Mir, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf 

With the exception of their remarkable victory over defending champions England, Afghanistan's overall performance has left much to be desired. They are now facing a couple of challenging fixtures, necessitating comprehensive improvements in all aspects of their game to maintain their tournament prospects.

Rahmanullah Gurbaz has exhibited moments of brilliance at the top of the batting order, but he requires enhanced support from Ibrahim Zadran. Similarly, Hashmatullah Shahidi and Azmatullah Omarzai have showcased their skills intermittently, but consistency will be vital moving forward.

Rahmat Shah and Najibullah Zadran have yet to realize their full potential in this World Cup. Ikram Alikhil, who stepped in for Najibullah in the last couple of matches, shows promise and may play a pivotal role in future matches.

Shifting to the bowling department, Rashid Khan has predictably been the standout performer with six wickets to his credit. He has received commendable assistance from Mujeeb Ur Rahman, who has claimed four wickets. Conversely, Mohammad Nabi has encountered challenges.

Naveen Ul-Haq and Fazalhaq Farooqi will initiate the innings with the new ball. Although they have collectively secured six wickets, their economy rates have been on the higher side.

Rahmanullah Gurbaz (WK), Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (C), Mohammad Nabi, Ikram Alikhil, Azmatullah Omarzai, Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveen-ul-Haq

Of the 25 completed matches played in Chennai, 15 have been successfully chased, including three out of the last five. Consequently, it is probable that the team winning the toss will opt to field first. The Chennai pitch is balanced and caters to various playing styles. It is expected to be dry with no grass cover. The ball comes onto the bat nicely, providing an opportunity for batsmen to execute their shots. However, there is an early swing for the bowlers, and wrist spinners are likely to find some turn.

A competitive score in Chennai is around 280 runs. The weather is anticipated to be warm and humid, with temperatures reaching approximately 30 degrees Celsius.

Dew is expected during the latter part of the match. After a couple of challenging fixtures, Pakistan has a favourable opportunity to regain its momentum. Nevertheless, Afghanistan is a competitive opponent, and we anticipate them to put up a strong fight.

Our recommendation is to place a bet on Pakistan for the win.