The first T20I between Pakistan and New Zealand will be played on 16th March in Hagley Oval, Christchurch.
Match Preview
Following an exceptional Champions Trophy campaign that culminated in a runner-up finish, New Zealand now shifts its focus to preparations for the T20I World Cup. With stalwarts such as Kane Williamson, Glenn Phillips, and Mitchell Santner rested, the squad welcomes the return of Finn Allen, Tim Seifert, Jimmy Neesham, and Kyle Jamieson.
Finn Allen will be a pivotal figure, given his electrifying performance the last time these two teams clashed in a T20I series on New Zealand soil. He amassed 275 runs at a staggering average of 55 while maintaining a ferocious strike rate of 195. Another batter poised to make an impact is Mark Chapman, whose prolific record against Pakistan makes him a formidable threat.
In the absence of their premier bowlers, the onus of spearheading the attack falls on the spin duo of captain Michael Bracewell and Ish Sodhi. The pair has thrived at Hagley Oval, collectively claiming 18 wickets at an enviable average of 19.33.
Pakistan, meanwhile, is desperate to recalibrate after a dismal Champions Trophy campaign. With the seasoned opening pair of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan omitted and Saim Ayub ruled out due to injury, emerging prospects like Omair Bin Yousaf and the returning M. Harris have a golden opportunity to carve a niche for themselves.
Amid mounting concerns over the inconsistent form of premier pacers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf, Abbas Afridi assumes a crucial role. His bowling style aligns seamlessly with the conditions in Christchurch. He enjoyed a fruitful outing on his last tour, scalping five wickets in three matches at an impressive average of 16.20.
Another player to keep a keen eye on is Abdul Samad, the explosive lower-middle-order batter who captivated audiences in the recently concluded Champions T20 Cup. His belligerent stroke play was on full display as he bludgeoned 115 runs at a jaw-dropping strike rate of 166.67.
With both sides eager to assert their dominance, the upcoming T20I series promises a riveting contest between New Zealand’s tactical depth and Pakistan’s bid for resurgence.
Probable XI
New Zealand
Finn Allen , Tim Robinson , Tim Seifert(WK) , Daryl Mitchell , Mark Chapman , Michael Bracewell (C) , Jimmy Neesham , Kyle Jamieson , Ish Sodhi , Ben Sears , Jacob Duffy
Pakistan
M Harris (WK) , Omair bin Yousaf , Usman khan , Salman Ali Agha (C), Shadab Khan , Abdul Samad ,Irfan Niazi, Abbas Afridi , Shaheen Afridi , Haris Rauf ,Abrar Ahmed
Head to Head
New Zealand and Pakistan have faced off in 44 T20Is, with Pakistan holding the upper hand, winning 23 matches. New Zealand has secured victory in 19 encounters, while two games ended with no result.
Pitch report
Christchurch has recently offered a slightly slower surface, with an average first-innings score of 160 since 2021. However, chasing teams have found success, winning six out of the last ten matches played at this venue.
Prediction:
Given how New Zealand has been performing lately, they are favourites to win the 1st game of the five-match series.
Where to watch
Pakistan: Tapmad
New Zealand: SkySports New Zealand
India: SonyLiv app and website
Others: CricHD
