Pakistan Cricket Team Embarks on New Zealand Tour
The Pakistan cricket team has departed for New Zealand, beginning their journey from Lahore Airport via Dubai before arriving in Christchurch. The team is set to compete in a five-match T20 International (T20I) series starting on March 16, followed by a three-match One Day International (ODI) series from March 29 to April 5.
Newcomers Abdul Samad and Hassan Nawaz have been included in the squad, earning their first national team call-ups. Vice-captain Shadab Khan expressed excitement over his leadership role and the team’s youthful energy. “With added responsibility, I aim to give my best performance. The young players bring enthusiasm, and we are confident in their potential,” he said.
New Zealand has selected seven players from their recent Champions Trophy finalist squad for this series. All-rounder Michael Bracewell will captain the Kiwi side, making for a compelling contest.
Mohammad Yousuf Rejoins the Tour
In a notable development, batting consultant Mohammad Yousuf has decided to travel with the team after initially opting out due to his daughter’s illness. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) first announced his withdrawal, but later confirmed his participation following an improvement in his daughter’s health.
“Doctors have assured me of my daughter’s recovery, so I’ve chosen to join the squad. Serving the national team is a top priority,” Yousuf stated.
Series Preview
The tour presents a crucial opportunity for both teams to refine their strategies ahead of upcoming international commitments. The last T20I series between Pakistan and New Zealand in April 2024 ended in a 2-2 draw after rain washed out the opening match in Rawalpindi.
Pakistan’s Squads
- T20I Squad: Salman Ali Agha (captain), Shadab Khan (vice-captain), Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Hasan Nawaz, Jahandad Khan, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Haris, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Omair Bin Yousaf, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sufyan Moqim, and Usman Khan.
- ODI Squad: Mohammad Rizwan (captain), Salman Ali Agha (vice-captain), Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Akif Javed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Imam-ul-Haq, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Sufyan Moqim, and Tayyab Tahir.
Match Schedule
- T20I Series:
- March 16: 1st T20I, Hagley Oval, Christchurch
- March 18: 2nd T20I, University Oval, Dunedin
- March 21: 3rd T20I, Eden Park, Auckland
- March 23: 4th T20I, Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui
- March 26: 5th T20I, Sky Stadium, Wellington
- ODI Series:
- March 29: 1st ODI, McLean Park, Napier
- April 2: 2nd ODI, Seddon Park, Hamilton
- April 5: 3rd ODI, Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui
With both teams aiming to showcase their skills, cricket enthusiasts eagerly anticipate thrilling encounters featuring a mix of experienced players and emerging talent.
