New Zealand arrive for T20I series

LAHORE: The New Zealand cricket team touched down in Islamabad during the early hours of Sunday for a five-match T20 series against Pakistan. The arrival marks the commencement of an eagerly awaited series, set to kick off on April 18 at Rawalpindi.

In a warm gesture, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) extended a hearty welcome to the Black Caps, showcasing the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie between the two cricketing nations. The PCB shared a video capturing the squad’s arrival in Islamabad, signaling the beginning of a thrilling cricketing showdown.

The series holds immense significance for both teams as they fine-tune their strategies and assess their squads ahead of the upcoming 2024 T20 World Cup, slated to commence on June 1.

Led by seasoned campaigner Babar Azam, the Pakistani side boasts a blend of experience and promising talent, with the inclusion of fast bowler Mohammad Amir and all-rounder Imad Wasim, among others. The squad, comprising 17 members, is poised to deliver spirited performances and set the stage alight with their cricketing prowess.

The New Zealand camp faced setbacks on the eve of departure, as key players Finn Allen and Adam Milne sustained injuries during the final stages of their training sessions. The duo’s absence from the squad paved the way for the inclusion of wicketkeeper-batsman Tom Blundell and all-rounder Zak Foulkes.

Despite the challenges posed by injuries and player availability, the New Zealand contingent remains undeterred in their quest for victory. With the likes of Trent Boult, Devon Conway, and Lockie Ferguson engrossed in IPL commitments, the team has rallied behind its core group of players, poised to showcase their mettle on the international stage.

Squads:

Pakistan: Babar Azam (c), Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Saim Ayub, Usman Khan, Iftikhar Ahmed, Azam Khan (wk), Imad Wasim, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Amir, Abbas Afridi, Abrar Ahmed, Fakhar Zaman, Irfan Khan Niazi, Usama Mir, Zaman Khan

Reserves: Haseebullah, Mohammad Ali, Agha Salman, Sahibzada Farhan, Mohammad Wasim Jr.

New Zealand: Michael Bracewell (c), Tom Blundell (WK), Mark Chapman, Josh Clarkson, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Dean Foxcroft, Ben Lister, Cole McConchie, Jimmy Neesham, Will O’Rourke*, Tim Robinson, Ben Sears, Tim Seifert (WK), Ish Sodhi

Staff members; Simon Insley (Manager), Matt Long (S&C), Gary Stead (Head Coach), Luke Ronchi (Batting Coach), James Foster (assistant coach), Brendon Donkers (Bowling Coach), Pat McHugh (Doctor), Gavin Cross (Physio), Terry Minish (Security).

Pakistan vs New Zealand T20I series schedule

April 18 — 1st T20I, Rawalpindi

April 20 — 2nd T20I, Rawalpindi

April 21 — 3rd T20I, Rawalpindi

April 25 — 4th T20I, Lahore

April 27 — 5th T20I, Lahore.