NASSER HUSSAIN’S PLAYERS TO WATCH

SHAHEEN SHAH AFRIDI

The left-arm paceman is getting early wickets again with the new ball, which he can swing. The MCG has offered movement in this World Cup and there should be bounce, too. Shaheen (far right) is nearly fully fit now and his speeds are up, but whether he will be ready to play in the Test series against england next month remains to be seen.

BABAR AND RIZWAN

I Can’T separate Babar azam (right) and Mohammad Rizwan because they come as a pair. They are hugely consistent and if they don’t fire Pakistan’s batting looks weak. But if they get their side off to a good start, as they did in the semi-final against new Zealand in Sydney, then everything else falls into place. Both batsmen have to push a little harder against england.

SHADAB KHAN

I lIke Shadab as a cricketer. he is three-dimensional and bowled his leg-spin beautifully in the group game at the SCG against South africa. he’s excellent in the field and pulled off the crucial run-out of Devon Conway in the semi-final. and he gives the ball a good belt when he comes in. It strikes me that he likes the big occasion. a cool, calculated, calm character.