Pakistan vs New Zealand 2018: 1st T20I, Abu Dhabi - Match Preview

Pakistan vs New Zealand 2018: 1st T20I, Abu Dhabi – Match Preview; After an unbeaten run of form in the T20I format, Pakistan is once again set to lock horns against New Zealand. They are already on the record streak of winning ten series consecutively and would like to bag yet another series against the Kiwis as well.

Pakistan got the momentum:

They have gained the great momentum on their side with all the players in the top-notch form. The new opener, Babar Azam has topped the ICC T20I ranking charts and would like to consolidate his position at the top. Surprisingly, Pakistan has found the great comfort in dealing the shorter version of the game quite effectively.

They have got the unique list of fast bowlers and spinners, who can make the life hard for the opposition. In addition, the young bunch has been exceptional in fielding as well. And, not to forget about the Sarfraz Ahmed’s brilliant captaincy.

Meanwhile, the injury to Fakhar Zaman is a big dent for the team. However, they have covered with the fine talent to overcome the issue, thanks to Pakistan Super League. Meanwhile, the return of Mohammad Hafeez and the all-round services of Shoaib Malik is icing on the cake.

Kiwis aim for the positive start:

After a considerable break from the international cricket, the Kiwis are donning the jersey for their country. They would like to start the new season on a positive note by thumping Pakistan in their backyard.

They have got some quality players in the side in Colin Munro, Kane Williamson and in-form Glenn Philips. They also backed it up with experienced, Ross Taylor and recalled the all-rounder Corey Anderson.

The pace of Locie Ferguson, Tim Southee will do the trick while the spin quadrant consists of Ish Sodhi and Ajaz Patel, who can wreak havoc on their day. All in all, a perfect entertainer is on its way.

Pakistan vs New Zealand 2018: 1st T20I, Abu Dhabi – Match Preview

Date & Time – October 31st, 08:00 PM Local Time

Venue – Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi

Weather Conditions – No rain is in the forecast. Hopefully, a perfect game is at the store.

Pitch Conditions: The wicket would help batsmen a better. However, spinners will get the juice.

Squads:

Pakistan: Babar Azam, Sahibzada Farhan, Mohammad Hafeez, Shoaib Malik, Asif Ali, Sarfraz Ahmed(w/c), Faheem Ashraf, Hasan Ali, Imad Wasim, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Hussain Talat, Shaheen Afridi, Waqas Maqsood

New Zealand: Colin Munro, Glenn Phillips(w), Kane Williamson(c), Ross Taylor, Mark Chapman, Corey Anderson, Colin de Grandhomme, Tim Southee, Ish Sodhi, Ajaz Patel, Lockie Ferguson, Adam Milne, Seth Rance, Tim Seifert