New Zealand and Pakistan will face each other in the third and last ODI of the series on 5th March at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui.
Match Preview:
With the series already decided in New Zealand’s favour, Pakistan now looks to avoid a whitewash and finish on a positive note. For the hosts, it’s a chance to wrap up a dominant 3-0 series win.
In the second ODI it was typical Pakistan who showed up. It looked like the top-order hadn’t faced any seam or bounce before because it was baffling how the top-order was wiped out for just 35 runs. Will O’Rourke and Jacob Duffy bowl immensely well that none of the top-order batter could make the mark.
Only Faheem Ashraf and the player who came down with a concussion Naseem Shah could make the mark for the tourists side.
For New Zealand, it was yet another “easy day at office” as they sealed a comfortable victory in the second ODI, much thanks to Daryll Mitchell’s 99 and five wicket haul of Ben Sears.
Heading into the final game, Pakistan will be looking for individual players to step up. Agha Salman had a decent start to the series but failed to make an impact in the second match. Known for his steady batting and useful off-spin, he remains a key all-round option. If he settles in early, he could provide some much-needed stability in the middle order.
For New Zealand, young batter Muhammad Abbas has been a bright spot. With scores of 41 and 52 in the series, he’s shown maturity beyond his years. His aggressive stroke play in the first ODI turned heads, and he could be crucial again if the top order stumbles.
Probable Playing XI:
New Zealand – Will Young, Nick Kelly, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Muhammad Abbas, Michael Bracewell (C), Mitchell Hay (WK), Nathan Smith, Jacob Duffy, Will O’Rourke.
Pakistan – Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan (C & WK), Agha Salman Ali, Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, Naseem Shah, Wasim Jnr, Akif Javed, Sufiyan Muqeem.
Pitch and weather report:
The match will be played at Bay Oval, a venue known for offering a fair contest between bat and ball. Early on, seamers are likely to get movement and bounce, making it challenging for batters to settle. However, as the innings progresses, the pitch tends to ease up, allowing set batters to capitalize. Spinners could also come into play during the middle overs.
The weather forecast for the match indicates a pleasant temperature range of 19-21°C, accompanied by a relatively high humidity level of 70-75%. Fortunately, there is no chance of rain, ensuring uninterrupted play.
Head-to-head record:
New Zealand and Pakistan have a long-standing ODI rivalry, having faced each other 120 times. Historically, Pakistan holds a slender edge, with 61 wins to New Zealand’s 56. Three matches ended in no result, while one was tied.
Prediction:
New Zealand are favourites to win the upcoming game of the series.
Where to Watch:
Pakistan: Tapmad, Tamasha, Ten Sports,
New Zealand: TVNZ+
India: SonyLiv app and website
Others: CricHD
