Losing against Ireland would be disastrous for Pakistan

Sarfraz’s men would be part of something very special as Pakistan takes on Ireland in a Test match on Friday at Dublin. The Test match is of special significance, as it will mark the entry of another nation in the world of Test cricket.

However, though it may sound unlikely on the cards losing against Ireland would be a major blow to Pakistan, as they would lose five crucial points.

“Pakistan will gain one point with a win against Ireland and reach 87 points while a draw will see them slip to 84 and a loss to 81 points. The table is led by India at 125 points with South Africa placed second at 112. Australia (106) and New Zealand (102) are placed third and fourth,” stated the ICC.

Pakistan currently ranks at seventh place with 86 points in the latest Test rankings, with India leading with 125 points, followed by South Africa (112), Australia (106), New Zealand (102), England (98), Sri Lanka (94) Including Pakistan (86), Bangladesh (75), West Indies (67) and Zimbabwe (2 points).

As for the MRF Tyres ICC Test Player Rankings, Pakistan opener Azhar Ali will be the top-ranked batsman in the Dublin Test. Asad Shafiq (joint-25th) and captain Sarfraz Ahmed (32nd) are the others in the top-50 while upcoming left-hander Sami Aslam would be hoping to improve his position of 74th on the table.

In bowling department, fast bowlers Mohammad Abbas (37th) and Mohammad Amir (39th) are the prominent names in the team for Pakistan.

Sarfraz’s men will play against Ireland, which will be their first-ever Test against Pakistan, from May 11 to May 15 in Dublin. Pakistan will then play two Tests against England at Lord’s from May 24 to May 28 and Headingley from June 1 to June 5.