Pakistan set to start Tri-series campaign against Kiwis on winning note

 Match preview:

Pakistan set to start Tri-series campaign against Kiwis on winning note

Asher Butt /

LAHORE: The much-anticipated ODI Tri-Series 2025 is set to begin with a thrilling encounter between Pakistan and New Zealand at the historic Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, on February 8. Both teams will be eager to start their campaign with a victory, setting the stage for an exciting tournament that also features South Africa.

Pakistan enters the Tri-Series in red-hot form, having recently swept South Africa 3-0 in a home ODI series. Ranked third in the ICC Men’s ODI Rankings with a rating of 111, Pakistan will have the home advantage and a strong squad at its disposal.

Led by Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan boasts a formidable batting lineup featuring Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, and Saud Shakeel. Though Babar has been struggling for form, this match presents a golden opportunity for him to regain his touch ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

The bowling attack is equally menacing, spearheaded by Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, and Mohammad Hasnain. With Lahore’s flat pitch and some early movement expected, Pakistan is likely to rely on its pace attack to trouble the Kiwi batters.

On the other hand, New Zealand, ranked fifth in the ICC ODI rankings, is also in decent form, having recently won a 2-1 ODI series against Sri Lanka. However, they face an uphill task against Pakistan in home conditions.

Mitchell Santner leads the Black Caps, bringing experience and balance to the squad. Rachin Ravindra will be a key player with the bat, while Kane Williamson and Devon Conway add stability at the top. The fast-bowling duo of Matt Henry and Lockie Ferguson will look to exploit Pakistan’s occasional vulnerability against extra pace.

The Gaddafi Stadium pitch typically favours batters, with an average first-innings score of around 252. Spinners might have a role later in the innings, but early assistance for fast bowlers is expected. Dew could play a factor, making it tougher for bowlers in the second half.

New Zealand is often an underrated side and should not be written off easily. However, Pakistan's home advantage, superior form, and pace attack give them a strong edge in this contest. Expect Pakistan to start the series with a win in front of an enthusiastic Lahore crowd.

Teams:

Pakistan: Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Mohammad Rizwan (c)(wk), Usman Khan (wk), Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha (vc), Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah and Shaheen Shah Afridi.

New Zealand: Devon Conway, Tom Latham, Kane Williamson, Will Young, Mitchell Santner, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Nathan Smith, Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Will O’Rourke, Ben Sears.