After a thrilling high-scoring contest in the first T20, New Zealand took the lead against Pakistan. The home team’s aggressive and depth-laden batting performance set the tone, leaving Pakistan with the challenge of bouncing back. As the teams gear up for the second T20 in Hamilton, the question is whether New Zealand can maintain its momentum and secure a 2-0 lead. Let’s delve into the details.
Head to Head Record:
- Pakistan has a historical advantage over New Zealand in T20s, winning 20 out of 34 completed matches.
- However, in New Zealand, the Kiwis have won 9 out of 15 T20 encounters against Pakistan.
Live Streaming and Broadcast:
- Amazon Prime is exclusively streaming the entire T20 series live on its app.
- Unfortunately, there are no TV broadcasters for this series in India.
Team Previews:
- New Zealand:
- Brilliant aggression defined New Zealand’s approach in the first match, with Kane Williamson, Finn Allen, Daryll Mitchell, and Mark Chapman leading the charge.
- New Zealand’s batting depth, with players like Chapman at number 7, provides a massive boost.
- Expect a similar aggressive approach in Hamilton, with the bigger boundaries posing a test for the batters.
- Daryll Mitchell, in superb form, is one to watch, and Devon Conway remains a consistent performer.
- Bowling-wise, Matt Henry and Tim Southee were standout performers, while Adam Milne and Ben Sears aim to bounce back.
- Pakistan:
- Despite some positives, including Saim Ayub’s batting, Abbas Afridi’s bowling, and Haris Rauf’s form, Pakistan is reevaluating its batting lineup.
- Babar Azam’s performance at three was notable, but the overall balance of the side needs adjustment.
- Aggressive changes in the batting order, like Iftikhar Ahmed’s position, Azam Khan’s raw talent, and Fakhar Zaman’s discomfort, need reconsideration.
- Bowling-wise, the spin department struggled, and changes may be on the cards. Shaheen Afridi needs to address his performance.
Toss Prediction:
The team winning the toss is likely to opt for fielding first.
Pitch and Conditions:
- Hamilton is expected to have sunny and pleasant conditions, perfect for cricket.
- Anticipate another batting-friendly pitch with the ball coming onto the bat nicely and a fast outfield.
- Despite longer boundaries offering some protection, a high-scoring match is still probable.
- Teams batting first will target a score around 180, mirroring the first match.
Betting Tips:
- New Zealand showcased a stronger and settled batting lineup in the first match, indicating an advantage over Pakistan.
- While Pakistan possesses danger, their tactics need refinement.
Prediction:
Bet on New Zealand to continue their dominance and secure victory in the 2nd T20, potentially sealing the series with a 2-0 lead.