Pakistan have been embarrassed by England in the ongoing ODI series, where Eoin Morgan's side have already clinched the five-match contest. England have won their last four matches, and are hoping for a series whitewash as they face Pakistan in the fifth ODI on Sunday.
After drawing the Test series at 2-2, there were huge expectations from Pakistan to deliver in the ODI format, but they have failed to turn up. Skipper Azhar Ali has been a subject of criticism after such performances from Pakistan in the 50-over series. Hence, this fifth ODI is huge for Pakistan, as they will be keen to win this game to restore pride, at least.
Pakistan have not really tested England in the series, which is a point of concern. They might have played some better cricket in the last match, which was still not enough as England won the match by four wickets.
The problem for Pakistan has been their batting as their batsmen have not scored much in any of the matches. While batting first, Pakistan's score reads 260, 251 and 247 runs, which will not be enough on decent batting tracks. Even when individual batsmen have scored runs, they have not converted their starts into big scores.
England, on the other hand, have no such problems with their batsmen, who have looked in amazing form. Someone or the other has contributed in a big manner when required. For instance, England were four wickets down for 72 runs in the fourth ODI, while chasing 248 runs to win. Ben Stokes and Jonny Baristow played a good hand of 69 and 61 runs respectively to help the home team win the fourth ODI. It remains to be seen if Buttler, who missed the last ODI due to hamstring, will make a comeback in the fifth match.
"Pakistan made early inroads but Stokes, Moeen, and Jonny made match-winning contributions. Jonny was outstanding but he's finding it hard to get into a winning side, which is a good problem for us," AP quoted Morgan as saying.
The way England have played their cricket in a confident manner, the home team should start the match as favourites. But, England will be aware of the unpredictable Pakistan team, who will be hell bent to finish the series with a win.
Where to watch live
England vs Pakistan 5th ODI is scheduled for a 10:30 a.m BST (3 p.m IST, 2:30 p.m Pakistan time) start.
India - TV: Star Sports 2/HD. Live Streaming: Starsports.com
Pakistan – TV: PTV Sports. Live streaming: PTV Sports live
UK: TV: Sky Sports 2. Live Streaming: Sky Go
Australia: TV: Fox Sports. Live Streaming: Foxtel Play.
