Pakistan likely playing XI for second T20I against New Zealand

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Pakistan is set to take on New Zealand in the second T20I in Rawalpindi on Saturday.

The team is expected to field the same likely XI as the first T20I, featuring a mix of experienced players and new talent.

While the trio of Usman Khan, Abrar Ahmed, and Muhammad Irfan Khan made their T20I debuts in the first match, they didn't get a chance to play due to rain, which halted proceedings after just two balls.

Pakistan skipper Babar Azam and Saim Ayub will open the batting for Pakistan, while Mohammad Rizwan is set to bat at one down. 

The middle order consists of Usman Khan, and Muhammad Irfan Khan, providing a blend of stability and power hitting.

The team will have two all-rounders Iftikhar Ahmed and Shadab Khan, who provide versatility and depth in both batting and bowling.

On the bowling front, pacers Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Mohammad Amir will lead the attack. Notably, Amir makes his return to the team after a four-year absence.

Abrar Ahmed will also be a key player in the lineup, aiming to trouble the New Zealand batsmen with his spin variations.

The first T20I match between the two sides was unfortunately called off after just two deliveries due to persistent rain in Rawalpindi. With the weather forecast showing a reduction in rain chances ahead of the second T20I, fans are hopeful for a full match.

Playing likely XI:

Babar Azam (c), Saim Ayub, Mohammad Rizwan, Usman Khan, Iftikhar Ahmed, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Amir, Abrar Ahmed

Pakistan squad:

Babar Azam (c), Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Saim Ayub, Usman Khan, Iftikhar Ahmed, Azam Khan (wk), Imad Wasim, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Amir, Abbas Afridi, Abrar Ahmed, Fakhar Zaman, Irfan Khan Niazi, Usama Mir, Zaman Khan

Reserves: Haseebullah, Mohammad Ali, Agha Salman, Sahibzada Farhan, Mohammad Wasim Jr

Pakistan vs New Zealand T20I series:
20 April: 2nd T20I, Rawalpindi (7pm PST)

21 April: 3rd T20I, Rawalpindi (7pm PST)

25 April: 4th T20I, Lahore (7pm PST)

27 April: 5th T20I, Lahore (7pm PST)