Last month, cricket fraternity was divided when New Zealand pulled out of the Pakistan on the morning of the first match, citing security concerns. England cancelled their Pakistan visit as well after that. The PCB arranged the National T20 Cup to prepare their players for the Men’s T20 World Cup 2021.
The course of events worked in Pakistan's favour. They thrashed India by 10 wickets in their tournament opener less than 48 hours ago in Dubai, ending a 12-match losing streak in Senior Men's World Cups against their arch-rival.
Their focus has now shifted to New Zealand, the only side yet to play in the tournament. Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan got the job done last time, which guarded the other batters (or prevented them from batting, depending on your point of view). Their bowling unit, led by Shaheen Shah Afridi, were devastating and clever with their variations as well.
But Pakistan are known for being ‘predictably unpredictable,' and because of that, the one thing they require at this stage is consistency. Also, they will be playing in Sharjah this time, so adjusting the conditions will be key.
New Zealand did not enjoy their warm-up matches, losing both of them against Australia and England. Their head-to-head records against Pakistan in this format are not in their favour either, having lost 14 and won 10. If they manage to win this time, Devon Conway and Lockie Ferguson will have a crucial role in it.
Likely XIs
Pakistan: Babar Azam (c), Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Hafeez, Shoaib Malik, Asif Ali, Imad Wasim, Shadab Khan, Hasan Ali, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf.
New Zealand: Martin Guptill, Devon Conway, Tim Seifert (wk), Kane Williamson (c), Glenn Phillips, Jimmy Neesham, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Lockie Ferguson, Ish Sodhi, Trent Boult.
Betway Fantasy Tips
- Back New Zealand. Neesham can be an interesting captain choice, considering his all-round ability.
- Among wicketkeepers, include Rizwan only. Include Babar as well.
- Shaheen, Hasan, Boult and Ferguson are genuine wicket-taking options.
Prediction
A tight contest. New Zealand may edge past Pakistan.
Blitzpool Fantasy XI
Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan (vc), Martin Guptill, Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Mohammad Hafeez, Jimmy Neesham (c), Trent Boult, Lockie Ferguson, Hasan Ali, Shaheen Shah Afridi.