After an incredibly successful Champions Trophy run, the kiwi squad will be hosting the Pakistani team for a 5-match T20I series. Unfortunately, for the hosts lineup key players are unavailable due to the upcoming Indian Premier League, scheduled to commence from 22nd March. Pakistan and New Zealand have faced each in 44 matches. Of these 44 encounters, the green team enjoys the upper hand with 23 wins, whereas, the kiwi lineup have 19 victories on their toll. With the recent downfall of the Pakistani T20I team as evidenced by their 3 consecutive T20I series loss, these stats can significantly change at the end of this series. Let’s wait and see!
Live Streaming Info
Fans can tune in to watch Pak Vs NZ live on Tens Sports and A Sports in Pakistan and Sky Sports Network in the NZ. This match will be streamed at 6:15 am PST, 6:45 am IST, and 1:15 am GMT.
Team Analysis
New Zealand’s batting lineup looks fairly strong for the T20I series. With Finn Allen at the top, they have an explosive opener capable of setting the tone early, with optimization of usage of powerplay. Mark Chapman provides stability in the middle order with his ability to accelerate when needed. Additionally, the legendary Daryl Mitchell, known for his consistency and power-hitting, adds depth and reliability. Together, this trio makes New Zealand’s batting a formidable force against Pakistan’s bowling attack and we won’t be surprised if along with the inevitable advantage of home crowd together with a superior batting order, the kiwi team yields a hefty target on the scoreboard.
Ish Sodhi’s inclusion in New Zealand’s T20I squad for this series against Pak is amother significant asset, especially with several key players absent due to IPL commitments. As a seasoned leg-spinner with 138 T20I wickets to his name, Sodhi’s experience and skill are invaluable. His recent performances in domestic cricket speaks for themselves and include a 3-wicket haul for Canterbury against Northern Districts, highlighting his form and readiness. Provided that New Zealand will miss key players like Mitchell Santner, Glenn Phillips, and Tom Latham in this series against Pakistan. Santner’s absence weakens their spin and leadership, while Glenn Phillip’s classy fielding would have been crucial.
From the Pakistani perspective, Shadab Khan and Mohammad Haris returning to the T20I squad against NZ is a big boost for the team. Shadab’s all-round skills and leadership in the middle overs strengthen both the bowling and batting departments. Moreover, the young talent Haris, known for his aggressive batting, adds firepower at the top. Their presence brings experience and balance to the squad. With these two back, Pakistan looks more dangerous for the series.
However, Pakistan’s obvious weakness in this series is the absence of key players like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, who have been rested for this series. This decision leaves the team without its most experienced batsmen, potentially destabilizing the batting lineup. Additionally, the appointment of Salman Ali Agha as the new T20I captain introduces leadership uncertainty, as he has limited experience in this role. The squad overhaul, while providing opportunities for emerging talents, may lead to a lack of cohesion and experience, making the team vulnerable against a seasoned New Zealand side.
Match Insights And Conclusion
T20I cricket always brings with itself exhilaration and excitement for cricket fans. The key impact players for this 1st game include Salman Ali Agha, Muhammad Haris, Mark Chapman, and Finn Allen. If you want to watch Pak Vs NZ live, scroll above and click on the link provided.
