Pak vs NZ: Unchanged Pakistan aim for redemption in 2nd T20I after disappointing series opener

Pakistan will face off against New Zealand with the same playing XI in the second Twenty20 International (T20I) today. 

The visitors kicked off their tour on a downbeat note, suffering a 46-run defeat in the series opener against the hosts.

The match is scheduled at 11:10am at Seddon Park in Hamilton.

New Zealand, opting to bat first on January 12 in the series opener, scored an imposing total of 226 runs, thanks to stellar performances from Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell. Despite a commendable 35-ball 57 from Babar Azam, Pakistan fell short, managing only 180 runs in response.

With a 1-0 lead in the series after their victory at Eden Park, Auckland, buoyed up New Zealand aim to edge closer to the trophy. Meanwhile, Pakistan are determined to level the series against the Black Caps, adding spice to the contest.

Apart from lackluster fielding, the visitors were notably dissatisfied with the subpar performances of leg-spinner Usama Mir and pacer Aamer Jamal. Mir conceded 51 runs in his four-over spell, while Jamal disappointed by giving away 55 runs, contributing to his team's downfall.

Saim Ayub, the stylish left-handed batter, will retain his position as the opener alongside Mohammad Rizwan. Following them in the batting order will be Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Iftikhar Ahmed, and the wicketkeeper-batter Azam Khan.

Captain Shaheen Afridi will lead the pace attack, supported by Haris Rauf and Abbas Afridi.

Seddon Park typically provides an excellent batting surface, posing a challenge for bowlers to secure wickets. Opting to field first would likely be the preferred strategy to capitalise on the batting-friendly conditions.

The weather forecast for upcoming New Zealand vs Pakistan match in Hamilton indicates favourable conditions for a full game. The outlook suggests mostly sunny weather with no precipitation, although some clouds may be present. 

The temperature is expected to reach around 29 degrees Celsius, with a humidity level of approximately 56%. The forecast also indicates a wind speed of 18 kilometers per hour.

Pakistan’s playing XI:

Saim Ayub, Mohammad Rizwan, Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Iftikhar Ahmed, Azam Khan (WK), Shaheen Afridi (C), Haris Rauf, Abbas Afridi, Aamir Jamal, Usama Mir

Remaining matches

2nd T20 – 14 January 2024 at Seddon Park, Hamilton

3rd T20 – 17 January 2024 at University Oval, Dunedin

4th T20 – 19 January 2024 at Hagley Oval, Christchurch

5th T20 – 21 January 2024 at Hagley Oval, Christchurch