Auckland, New Zealand – Pakistan is in a do-or-die situation after New Zealand set a challenging 205-run target in the third T20I at Eden Park, Auckland. Trailing 0-2 in the five-match series, Pakistan must secure a win to stay in contention and avoid an early series defeat.
Match Summary
After winning the toss and electing to bowl, Pakistan hoped to restrict New Zealand to a manageable total. However, the hosts exploited Pakistan’s bowling attack, finishing their innings at 204 runs in 19.5 overs. New Zealand’s aggressive batting approach and Pakistan’s inconsistent bowling allowed the Black Caps to post an imposing total.
Team Lineups & Key Changes
New Zealand maintained their winning combination, with Michael Bracewell leading the side. Pakistan, on the other hand, made some notable changes, with Salman Ali Agha taking over the captaincy.
New Zealand Playing XI:
Tim Seifert, Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Mitch Hay (wk), Michael Bracewell (c), Ish Sodhi, Kyle Jamieson, Jacob Duffy, Ben Sears.
Pakistan Playing XI:
Mohammad Haris (wk), Hasan Nawaz, Salman Ali Agha (c), Muhammad Irfan Khan, Shadab Khan, Abdul Samad, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf.
Selection Controversy Sparks Debate
Pakistan’s team selection has been met with criticism from fans and cricket analysts. The exclusion of in-form players like Sufiyan Muqeem and Abbas Afridi has raised questions about the selection committee’s strategy.
Awais, a Pakistani cricket fan, expressed his frustration:
“Abbas and Sufiyan were performing well, yet they were not included in the first two matches. The selection policies remain puzzling.”
Meanwhile, Abhijeet, an Indian cricket fan, extended his support to the struggling Pakistan side, saying:
“The boys have taken a lot of criticism. They need a win to regain confidence.”
Pakistan’s Struggle & Series Outlook
New Zealand, already in control of the series, will aim to clinch the series victory with a third consecutive win. Pakistan’s inconsistent performances and unsettled lineup continue to put them under immense pressure.
With the match underway, all eyes will be on Pakistan’s young batting lineup to see if they can chase down the 205-run target and keep their T20I series hopes alive.
