Preparations for Pakistan’s inaugural T20 International against New Zealand have uncovered the potential bowling strategy set to unfold in Auckland on January 12.
Leading the pace battery, Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf are expected to spearhead the attack, bolstered by Zaman Khan. Aamer Jamal, known for his all-round skills, is anticipated to play a pivotal role with bat and ball.
In training sessions, Shaheen, Haris, and Zaman showcased their prowess with the new ball, forming a unified pace unit, while Mohammad Wasim Jr, Aamer Jamal, and Abbas Afridi honed their skills in the alternate bowling contingent.
The spin department sees Usama Mir in contention, likely edging ahead of Mohammad Nawaz for the first encounter.
The proposed batting lineup outlines Rizwan and Saim as the opening pair, Babar Azam to follow at number three, and Fakhar Zaman likely batting at four. Azam Khan, fulfilling the wicketkeeper’s role, is slated for the fifth position, with Iftikhar Ahmed set to provide firepower at six, their positions possibly adaptable based on the game’s dynamics.
Probable Starting XI: Saim Ayub, Mohammad Rizwan (VC), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Azam Khan (wk), Iftikhar Ahmed, Aamer Jamal, Shaheen Afridi (C), Usama Mir, Haris Rauf, Zaman Khan
Complete Squad: (Captain) Shaheen Shah Afridi, (Vice-Captain & Wicketkeeper) Mohammad Rizwan, Aamir Jamal, Abbas Afridi, Azam Khan (Wicketkeeper), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Haseebullah (Wicketkeeper), Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Usama Mir, Zaman Khan
Full Match Schedule:
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1st T20 – January 12, 2024 at Eden Park, Auckland
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2nd T20 – January 14, 2024 at Seddon Park, Hamilton
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3rd T20 – January 17, 2024 at University Oval, Dunedin
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4th T20 – January 19, 2024 at Hagley Oval, Christchurch
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5th T20 – January 21, 2024 at Hagley Oval, Christchurch
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