Both teams are in great form, having won four of their last five matches
14 February, 2025
PHOTO: PCB
The final test before the Champions Trophy is set, as Pakistan and New Zealand prepare for the decisive clash of the Tri-Series at National Stadium, Karachi, on Friday. After chasing a massive target against South Africa, the morale of the home team is at an all-time high. With another high-scoring contest expected on the flat pitch, bowlers from both sides face a tough challenge in containing the runs.
Pakistan will once again rely on their century-makers from the last match, Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha, to deliver match-winning performances. Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman are also key players in the batting lineup. However, pacers Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah must improve their performance, particularly in the death overs.
On the other hand, New Zealand holds a psychological advantage after winning their first match against Pakistan. Their aggressive batting lineup, coupled with a disciplined bowling attack that previously restricted Pakistan to 252, makes them formidable opponents. The winning team will head into the Champions Trophy with high confidence.
Pakistan’s Form in the Series
Pakistan’s journey in the Tri-Series has been mixed. In their opening match, New Zealand posted 330 runs and then bowled out Pakistan for 252. Pakistan’s bowlers struggled, especially in the death overs, conceding heavily. However, the hosts bounced back with a record chase against South Africa, successfully chasing 353 runs—Pakistan’s highest-ever run chase.
After losing early wickets at 91-3, the team looked in trouble, but Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha’s 260-run partnership led them to a remarkable victory. Fakhar Zaman, playing as an opener alongside Babar Azam, displayed his trademark attacking batting. While Babar has yet to score a big innings, he showed positive intent in the last match. Both opening partnerships in the series have crossed the 50-run mark.
Kamran Ghulam struggled in the first match and was replaced by Saud Shakeel, who also failed to make an impact. With high expectations from Rizwan and Salman after their centuries, others in the lineup, including Tayyab Tahir and Khushdil Shah, will need to step up.
Bowling Concerns for Pakistan
Pakistan’s biggest concern remains their bowling unit, which conceded 330 and 352 runs in the two matches. Even star pacers Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah were unable to contain runs in the final overs. The team also suffered a setback with Haris Rauf’s injury, while Mohammad Hasnain failed to impress when given an opportunity.
The only specialist spinner, Abrar Ahmed, along with part-time options Salman Ali Agha and Khushdil Shah, has not been effective so far. For Pakistan to win the final, their bowlers must deliver a strong performance.
New Zealand’s Strong Form
New Zealand’s batting unit has been in top form, with key players like Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, and Devon Conway all scoring big runs. They successfully chased a 305-run target against South Africa, proving their consistency with 300+ scores in both matches.
Their bowling attack is also well-balanced, with Matt Henry and Mitchell Santner having already taken three wickets each against Pakistan.
On Thursday, while Pakistan opted for rest, the New Zealand squad held a night practice session. Captains Mohammad Rizwan and Mitchell Santner also participated in the trophy unveiling ceremony.
Both teams are in great form, having won four of their last five matches. With the Champions Trophy approaching, this final match will serve as a crucial test for both sides.
