Batsman-wicket-keeper Umar Akmal was sent home from their Birmingham base due to fitness issues while the ugly topic of spot-fixing has reared its head again with Mohammad Nawaz being suspended.

On the field, millions of Pakistani fans will be hoping their team can produce a performance of merit against arch-rivals India in their Champions Trophy Group B opener (June 4 at Edgbaston), before contests against South Africa (June 7 at the same venue) and Sri Lanka (June 12 at Sophia Gardens).

Pakistan will be led by Sarfraz Ahmed in the tournament while key men include pace duo Mohammad Amir and Wahab Riaz.

Sport360’s Stuart Appleby is joined by cricket expert Ajit Vijaykumar to discuss how Pakistan will fare.

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