Match Details
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Fixture: Pakistan vs New Zealand, Tri-Series Final
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Date: Friday, February 14, 2025
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Time: 2:30 PM IST | 2:00 PM Local Time | 9:00 AM GMT
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Venue: National Stadium, Karachi
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Live Streaming: FanCode (India), PTV Sports (Pakistan)
Teams Overview
Pakistan
Pakistan bounced back brilliantly in the tournament after a crushing loss to New Zealand in the opening match. Led by Mohammad Rizwan, the team showcased resilience in their second game, chasing down a record 352 against South Africa. With their batting lineup clicking and their bowling attack having key match-winners, Pakistan will be looking to capitalize on home conditions to lift the trophy.
Strengths:
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Explosive top-order with Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam.
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Strong middle-order, including Mohammad Rizwan and Agha Salman.
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A lethal pace attack with Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Mohammad Hasnain.
Concerns:
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Babar Azam’s lack of form.
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Inconsistent middle-order performance under pressure.
New Zealand
New Zealand has been dominant in the tournament, securing two convincing wins against both opponents. Their balanced squad, comprising experienced players like Kane Williamson and Devon Conway, makes them a formidable side. With a well-rounded pace attack and dependable batters, the Black Caps will be looking to maintain their unbeaten run and claim the trophy.
Strengths:
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In-form batters with Devon Conway and Daryl Mitchell leading the charge.
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A solid middle order with Tom Latham and Glenn Phillips.
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A pace-heavy bowling attack with Matt Henry and Ben Sears.
Concerns:
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Middle-order collapses under pressure.
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Spin department could be tested on Karachi’s surface.
Head to Head (ODIs)
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Total Matches Played: 112
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Pakistan Wins: 59
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New Zealand Wins: 50
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No Result: 3
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Last Five ODIs: New Zealand leads 3-2
Probable Playing XI
Pakistan (Captain: Mohammad Rizwan)
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Fakhar Zaman
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Babar Azam
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Saud Shakeel
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Mohammad Rizwan (C & WK)
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Salman Agha
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Khushdil Shah
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Tayyab Tahir
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Mohammad Hasnain
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Naseem Shah
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Shaheen Afridi
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Abrar Ahmed
New Zealand (Captain: Kane Williamson)
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Will Young
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Devon Conway
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Kane Williamson (C)
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Daryl Mitchell
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Tom Latham (WK)
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Glenn Phillips
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Michael Bracewell
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Mitchell Santner
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Matt Henry
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William O’Rourke
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Ben Sears
Pitch Report
The National Stadium, Karachi, is known for its balanced surface.
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Batting Friendly: The pitch will offer good bounce and carry, allowing batters to score freely.
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Pacers’ Assistance: Early movement for seamers with the new ball.
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Spinners’ Role: As the game progresses, spinners can get assistance, making middle-overs crucial.
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Winning Strategy: Teams might prefer chasing due to dew factor in the evening.
Probable Match Scenarios
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If Pakistan bats first, they need a 300+ score to challenge New Zealand’s deep batting lineup.
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If New Zealand bats first, they might aim for a 320+ total considering Pakistan’s successful chases.
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Early wickets will be key in deciding the momentum, especially for New Zealand, given Pakistan’s strong middle-order recovery in the last game.
Key Players to Watch
Pakistan
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Fakhar Zaman – In top form, providing aggressive starts.
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Shaheen Afridi – Can be a game-changer with early wickets.
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Agha Salman – Match-winner in the last game, a crucial middle-order anchor.
New Zealand
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Devon Conway – The backbone of NZ’s batting lineup.
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Kane Williamson – The experienced captain, known for playing pressure situations well.
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Matt Henry – NZ’s lead pacer who can exploit Karachi’s conditions.
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Live Streaming
India:
- TV Channel: Sony Pictures Network (Specific channel to be announced)
- Live Streaming: SonyLIV app and website
Pakistan:
- TV Channel: Asports
- Live Streaming: Tamasha App, Tapmad
Match Prediction
With Pakistan playing at home and coming off a historic chase, they have momentum on their side. However, New Zealand’s unbeaten streak and balanced squad give them an edge.
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If Pakistan’s top order fires, they have a strong chance of winning.
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If New Zealand’s bowling attack delivers early breakthroughs, they can dominate the game.
Prediction: Pakistan 55% – New Zealand 45%
Pakistan holds a slight advantage due to home conditions, but New Zealand’s composure under pressure makes them equally strong contenders.