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This five-match T20I series between Pakistan and New Zealand promises to be a crucial test for both sides in the lead-up to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024.
The opening match will be played on April 18th at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. In the absence of senior players, Michael Bracewell will lead New Zealand, while Babar Azam will captain the Pakistan team. Both teams will be eager to establish dominance and gain momentum ahead of the World Cup.
T20I Stats and Records at Rawalpindi:
- Total matches: 05
- Matches won batting first: 0
- Matches won bowling first: 04
- Average 1st Inns scores: 155
- Average 2nd Inns scores: 154
- Highest total recorded: 194/4 (19.2 Ov) by New Zealand vs Pakistan
- Lowest total recorded: 129/9 (20 Ov) by Zimbabwe vs Pakistan
- Highest score chased: 194/4 (19.2 Ov) by New Zealand vs Pakistan
Rawalpindi Pitch Report:
Rawalpindi’s pitch is a batter’s dream, likely yielding high scores in Thursday’s T20 clash. Pacers might get early swing and bounce, but this advantage fades as the innings progresses. Spinners could then become crucial, exploiting a drying pitch for wickets. Uncertain weather with a chance of rain adds a twist – a wet surface could favour spinners earlier. Expect a high-scoring T20 battle, with the team adapting best to the conditions taking the edge.
Rawalpindi Weather Forecast:
The weather forecast for the 1st T20I match between Pakistan and New Zealand in Rawalpindi isn’t looking ideal for a full game. There’s a high chance of rain, with most sources predicting close to 30% precipitation. While the wind speed is expected to be moderate, the previously mentioned 19% might be a misinterpretation of another factor. Humidity is likely to be around the 50-60% range, which is fairly typical. In short, rain is the major concern and could potentially disrupt the match.
Also READ: PAK vs NZ, 2024: New Zealand’s best playing XI for the T20I series against Pakistan
PAK vs NZ, Probable Playing XIs:
Pakistan: Babar Azam (c), Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Iftikhar Ahmed, Usman Khan, Imad Wasim, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Afridi, Usama Mir, Mohammad Amir, Naseem Shah
New Zealand: Tim Seifert (wk), Mark Chapman, Cole McConchie, Josh Clarkson, Tim Robinson, Michael Bracewell (c), James Neesham, Dean Foxcroft, Ben Sears, Ish Sodhi, Will O’Rourke
