Match Details:
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Match: New Zealand vs Pakistan, 1st ODI
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Date & Time: Friday, March 29, 2024, 3:30 AM (IST)
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Venue: McLean Park, Napier
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Live Streaming: Sony Sports Network & FanCode
Team Overviews:
New Zealand:
The Blackcaps, led by Michael Bracewell, enter the ODI series with key players like Will Young and Henry Nicholls returning to the squad. After a competitive T20I series, the Kiwis will be keen to maintain their dominance at home.
Pakistan:
Pakistan will see the return of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, who will also take up leadership duties. With a fresh approach in the 50-over format, the visitors will look to bounce back from their previous ICC tournament disappointment.
Key Players to Watch:
New Zealand:
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Michael Bracewell (c): Key all-rounder leading the side.
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Will Young: Experienced batter strengthening the top order.
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Henry Nicholls: Vital in the middle order for stability.
Pakistan:
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Babar Azam: Pakistan’s batting mainstay and a key player in ODIs.
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Mohammad Rizwan (c/wk): Returning to ODIs with captaincy responsibility.
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Naseem Shah: Pakistan’s lead pacer who can exploit Napier’s conditions.
Head-to-Head Record (ODIs):
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Total Matches: 119
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New Zealand Wins: 54
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Pakistan Wins: 61
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Tied: 1
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No Result: 3
Pitch Report:
McLean Park is traditionally a high-scoring venue with a batting-friendly surface. However, pacers might get some early movement, and the pitch tends to slow down as the game progresses.
Probable Scenarios:
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Batting First: A score of 280+ could be competitive.
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Bowling First: Early swing could trouble openers, but chasing might be easier under lights.
Match Prediction:
Considering their home advantage and momentum, New Zealand holds a slight edge, but Pakistan’s experienced players returning could make it a closely fought contest.
