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New Zealand‘s cricket team is set to begin their tour of Pakistan on April 18, marking their third visit to the country within the past 17 months. The team will compete against Pakistan in a five-match T20I series, a much-anticipated event for cricket enthusiasts from both nations.
Team composition and key players missing
Michael Bracewell will lead the New Zealand team, which is eager to deliver strong performances despite the absence of several key players. Notably, 12 players were unavailable when the team was initially selected, making this series a test of the team’s depth and versatility.
Injuries affecting the squad
New Zealand’s preparations for the series were further hampered by the injuries of opener Finn Allen, who suffered a back injury, and pacer Adam Milne, who sustained an ankle injury. Both players were ruled out of the tour before the team’s departure to Pakistan.
Determined to succeed despite challenges
Despite these challenges, the Black Caps remain determined to showcase their skills and secure a successful series against Pakistan. The tour presents an opportunity for the team to prove themselves and vie for selection for future major events.
New Zealand’s playing XI for the T20I series against Pakistan
Star openers
- Tim Seifert (wk): A talented wicketkeeper-batter known for his aggressive batting style at the top of the order. He can play explosive innings and provide quick starts.
- Mark Chapman: A left-handed batter with a solid technique and the ability to anchor the innings. He can also accelerate the scoring rate when needed.
Energetic middle-order
- Cole McConchie: A dependable batter in the middle order who can also contribute with his off-spin bowling, adding versatility to the team.
- Josh Clarkson: A young, hard-hitting batter with the ability to clear the boundaries. He provides power-hitting options in the middle order.
- Tim Robinson: A promising batter in the middle order with a good range of shots. He can stabilize the innings and rotate the strike effectively.
Also READ: PAK vs NZ, 2024 – Pakistan’s probable playing XI for the T20I series against New Zealand
Dynamic all-rounders
- Michael Bracewell (c): The captain and an experienced all-rounder who bowls off-spin and can provide valuable runs in the middle order. His leadership and experience will be key for the team.
- James Neesham: A dynamic all-rounder known for his hard-hitting batting and useful medium-fast bowling. He is a match-winner with both bat and ball.
- Dean Foxcroft: A young all-rounder who offers valuable contributions with both bat and ball. He can provide balance to the team with his skills.
Spirited bowling attack
- Ben Sears: A fast bowler with raw pace and the ability to generate movement. He can be a wicket-taking option at crucial stages of the match.
- Ish Sodhi: A leg-spinner who can be a game-changer with his variations and ability to take wickets in the middle overs.
- Will O’Rourke: A talented bowler with the ability to swing the ball and trouble batters. He can be a key asset in the bowling attack.
