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The highly anticipated Tri-Nation Series kicks off with an exciting battle between Pakistan and New Zealand at Lahore. With the ICC Champions Trophy just around the corner, both sides will be keen to fine-tune their squads and build momentum ahead of the marquee event.
Although neither of these teams is being considered among the top contenders for the Champions Trophy, they possess plenty of quality and experience. South Africa will join the action later in the tournament, leaving Pakistan and New Zealand to set the stage for an intense competition.
Both teams enter this contest with confidence, having secured series victories in their most recent ODI outings. With an energetic Lahore crowd expected to turn up in large numbers, the stage is set for a thrilling opening match.
MATCH DETAILS
| Fixture | Pakistan vs New Zealand |
|---|---|
| Date | February 3, 2025 |
| Time | 2:30 PM IST / 2:00 PM PST |
| Venue | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore |
| Live Streaming | Available on official platforms |
TEAMS PREVIEW
Pakistan
The hosts will look to make an early statement in the tournament with a powerful performance. Pakistan’s strength in this contest lies in its lethal pace attack, featuring some of the fastest bowlers in the world.
Shaheen Shah Afridi is expected to lead the attack with the new ball, accompanied by Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf, both known for their ability to generate express speed. Mohammad Hasnain provides another pace option, ensuring a relentless assault on opposition batters. While their wicket-taking ability is unquestionable, controlling the run flow remains an area to improve.
In the batting department, Babar Azam is eyeing a return to top form. He will be crucial in providing stability at the top. Mohammad Rizwan, who is also leading the side, has been a consistent performer in this format. Saud Shakeel and Umran Khan add balance to the lineup, while Salman Agha and Tayyab Tahir will be expected to contribute in the middle order.
The conditions at Lahore should suit Pakistan’s fast bowlers, but they will need their batters to step up and deliver a competitive total against a disciplined New Zealand attack.
Pakistan Predicted XI:
Saud Shakheel, Umran Khan, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan (c) (wk), Kamran Ghulam, Salman Agha, Tayyab Tahir, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Hasnain, Haris Rauf
New Zealand
New Zealand arrives in Lahore with the confidence of a strong recent performance in ODI cricket. They comfortably won their last bilateral series and will be eager to test their squad ahead of the Champions Trophy.
Their batting lineup is anchored by the experienced Kane Williamson, who remains a key figure in their middle order. Rachin Ravindra has emerged as a promising all-rounder, providing stability at the top alongside Will Young. The wicketkeeping responsibilities fall to Devon Conway, who is also a crucial player with the bat.
All-rounders Glenn Phillips and Daryl Mitchell add depth, ensuring a strong balance between batting and bowling. The bowling attack will be spearheaded by Matt Henry, who has been in excellent form in both domestic and international cricket. Lockie Ferguson brings raw pace, while Mitchell Santner offers control with his spin.
New Zealand’s biggest challenge will be adjusting to conditions that favor fast bowlers. If their batters can handle Pakistan’s pace barrage, they have the potential to put up a strong fight.
New Zealand Predicted XI:
Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Devon Conway (wk), Glenn Phillips, Daryl Mitchell, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c), Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Jacob Duffy
FANTASY XI
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Babar Azam | Batter |
| Kane Williamson | Batter |
| Saud Shakheel | Batter |
| Mohammad Rizwan (c) | Wicketkeeper |
| Devon Conway | Wicketkeeper |
| Glenn Phillips | All-rounder |
| Daryl Mitchell | All-rounder |
| Shaheen Afridi | Bowler |
| Matt Henry | Bowler |
| Lockie Ferguson | Bowler |
| Haris Rauf | Bowler |
PITCH REPORT
The surface at Gaddafi Stadium is expected to provide a fair contest between bat and ball. The pitch usually offers true bounce, making stroke play easier for batters. However, pacers will get assistance with the new ball, especially under the lights.
- Average 1st Innings Score: 285+
- Assistance for Bowlers: Early movement for pacers; spinners effective in middle overs
- Best Strategy: Teams batting first should aim for a total of at least 285 to put pressure on the opposition.
TOSS PREDICTION
Recent history at this venue suggests that bowling first is a preferred choice. With the dew factor potentially coming into play later in the game, chasing could be an advantage. Expect both captains to opt for fielding first if they win the toss.
MATCH PREDICTION
New Zealand is known for its ability to punch above its weight, making them a dangerous opponent in any format. However, Pakistan’s pace attack, combined with home advantage, gives them the upper hand in this contest.
Prediction: Pakistan to win
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