PAK vs NZ 2nd Match Prediction

PAK vs NZ Team Previews

Pakistan

The hosts have opted for a full-strength squad for this series and that should help them reap the benefits against a depleted New Zealand squad.

Pakistan has a strong batting line-up to bank on. It will be headlined by Babar Azam, who is back at the helm and will likely open the batting alongside Saim Ayub. Usman Khan and Mohammad Rizwan are likely to follow them in the number 3 and number 4 spots respectively.

This would be a big change and would require a change in batting approach from Mohammad Rizwan.

The hosts have some quality all-rounders in the form of Iftikhar Ahmed, Shadab Khan, and Irfan Khan, which helps the team get plenty of depth in the batting line-up. You can add Imad Wasim to this lift of players as well.

Pakistan has a potent new-ball attack with Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah, while Mohammad Amir coming in as the first change. Abrar Ahmed is likely to be the full-time spinner on the team. 

There are plenty of good options but Pakistan needs to work on getting the right players in the right positions. The mental approach to play high-quality modern T20 cricket also needs to be accepted by everyone in the squad. 

New Zealand

As mentioned earlier, New Zealand hasn’t been able to send a full-strength sqaud for this series as some of its first-choice players are in India, playing the IPL. Nevertheless, the Black Caps have a knack for punching above their weight and we can expect a good fight from the visitors.

Tim Robinson, who made his international debut on Thursday, was bowled for a duck before rain forced the match to be abandoned. He will once again open the batting alongside Tim Seifert and will hope to redeem himself. Just like their opponents, New Zealand has some good all-rounders in the form of Dean Foxcroft, James Neesham, Michael Bracewell, and Josh Clarkson.

While not regular internationals, these players have plenty of experience in playing in T20 leagues.

Does Pakistan have enough power and depth in its lineup to challenge Pakistan? We don't think so. They will have players that attack with intent but we don't see them dominating large passages of play. The Kiwi bowling attack also has some clear issues.

Jacob Duffy, Ben Sears, and Ben Lister are likely to be the 3 seamers on the team. They have limited experience playing in the subcontinent and are likely to struggle against the strong batting line-up of Pakistan. Ish Sodhi might come in handy during the middle overs but he is the only quality spinner on the team.