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The New Zealand vs Pakistan prediction for the 1st T20 match is set to be an exciting contest as both teams gear up for the opening game of the series. New Zealand, led by Michael Bracewell, will look to capitalize on their home advantage, while Pakistan, under Salman Ali Agha, aim to start the series on a high note. With both teams boasting strong squads, this match promises to be a thrilling encounter. Let’s dive into the details of the match, team previews, squads, and more.
Table of content
- 1 Match Details
- 2 Team Preview
- 3 New Zealand Preview:
- 4 Pakistan Preview:
- 5 Team Squad
- 6 Probable Playing XI
- 7 New Zealand vs Pakistan Today’s Dream11/Fantasy Prediction
- 8 Favourite Team in Today’s Match
- 9 New Zealand T20 History
- 10 Pakistan T20 History
- 11 Head-to-Head Stats
- 12 Pitch Report
- 13 Weather Report
- 14 Broadcast Details
- 15 Match Prediction
- 16 FAQ – NZ vs PAK 1st T20
- 17 Share this:
- 18 Like this:
- 19 Related
Match Details
| Match | New Zealand vs Pakistan, 1st T20I |
|---|---|
| Date | Sunday, 16th March 2025 |
| Time | 6:45 AM (Mar 16) |
| Venue | Hagley Oval, Christchurch |
| Series | Pakistan tour of New Zealand, 2025 |
Team Preview
New Zealand Preview:
New Zealand enters the upcoming T20I series against Pakistan with a rejuvenated squad and several exciting players. With Michael Bracewell leading the side, the Black Caps will be looking to dominate on home soil and continue their strong T20I performances.
Batting Strength and Key Players
New Zealand boasts a power-packed batting lineup, with a mix of explosive hitters and technically sound players.
- Finn Allen will be the key batter, given his reputation as a destructive opener in T20 cricket. His ability to take on the bowlers in the powerplay makes him a crucial player.
- Mark Chapman, who has been in fine form in T20Is, will provide stability in the middle order.
- Tim Robinson, a rising star in New Zealand’s T20 setup, adds depth to the batting lineup.
- Daryl Mitchell and James Neesham bring all-round capabilities, adding firepower to the middle and lower order.
- Tim Seifert and Mitchell Hay will handle wicket-keeping duties, ensuring flexibility in the lineup.
With experienced players and young talent, New Zealand’s batting order is well-balanced and capable of setting or chasing down big totals.
Bowling Strength and Key Players
New Zealand’s bowling attack is solid, comprising a blend of experience and youth.
- Jacob Duffy, a proven T20 bowler, will lead the pace attack, providing early breakthroughs.
- Kyle Jamieson’s height and bounce make him a dangerous option, especially on home pitches.
- William O’Rourke and Ben Sears bring raw pace, while Matt Henry’s control and variations will be valuable in the middle overs.
- Ish Sodhi, the experienced leg-spinner, will spearhead the spin attack, playing a vital role in containing runs and picking up crucial wickets.
New Zealand’s home advantage will favor their bowlers, as they are well accustomed to the conditions at Hagley Oval.
Recent Form and Strategy
New Zealand has had a mixed record against Pakistan in T20Is, winning 19 out of 44 matches. At Hagley Oval, they have won 2 out of 5 games, meaning they will need a strong performance to dominate Pakistan.
Their key strategies will include:
- Aggressive Powerplay Batting – Relying on Finn Allen and Mark Chapman to set a strong foundation.
- Middle-Order Stability – Ensuring Bracewell, Mitchell, and Neesham control the innings.
- Tight Bowling in Death Overs – Utilizing Jamieson, Henry, and Duffy to restrict Pakistan’s batters.
New Zealand will be eager to start the series on a winning note and use their home conditions to their advantage.
Pakistan Preview:
Pakistan, led by Salman Agha, comes into this series with a strong squad, featuring a mix of experienced T20 stars and promising young talents.
With Pakistan having a slight edge in head-to-head battles (23 wins out of 44 matches), they will be confident heading into the series.
Batting Strength and Key Players
Pakistan’s batting lineup is packed with firepower, and they will rely on their aggressive approach to challenge New Zealand.
- Omair Yousuf will lead the batting attack, coming off impressive T20 performances. His ability to anchor the innings will be crucial.
- Hasan Nawaz, Abdul Samad, and Khushdil Shah bring aggression and stability to the top and middle order.
- Irfan Khan is a talented batting all-rounder, capable of providing late fireworks.
- Mohammad Haris and Usman Khan will take up wicket-keeping duties, ensuring flexibility in the squad.
If Pakistan’s batting unit clicks, they have the potential to put up or chase down massive totals.
Bowling Strength and Key Players
Pakistan’s bowling attack is world-class, featuring a mix of pace and spin options.
- Shaheen Afridi, one of the most lethal T20 bowlers, will lead the pace attack, looking to dismantle New Zealand’s top order.
- Haris Rauf, Mohammad Ali, and Abbas Afridi bring express pace, adding depth to the bowling unit.
- Shadab Khan and Jahandad Khan provide spin options, with Shadab’s experience in T20 leagues worldwide being a huge asset.
- Abrar Ahmed and Sufiyan Muqeem bring mystery spin, which could trouble New Zealand’s batters.
Pakistan’s bowlers will look to exploit New Zealand’s weaknesses and apply pressure throughout the innings.
Recent Form and Strategy
Pakistan has won 3 out of 5 T20Is at Hagley Oval, giving them a psychological edge. However, they need to address batting collapses, which have been an issue in previous series.
Their key strategies will include:
- Early Wickets with Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf – Targeting Finn Allen and Chapman in the powerplay.
- Middle-Order Contributions – Ensuring Khushdil Shah and Abdul Samad anchor the innings if early wickets fall.
- Spin Dominance with Shadab Khan and Abrar Ahmed – Using spin in middle overs to break partnerships.
If Pakistan executes their plans effectively, they can outplay New Zealand and take control of the series.
Team Squad
New Zealand T20 Squad:
Michael Bracewell (c), Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Jacob Duffy, Zakary Foulkes, Mitchell Hay, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, Will O’Rourke, Tim Robinson, Ben Sears, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi.
Pakistan T20 Squad:
Salman Ali Agha (c), Shadab Khan (vc), Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Hasan Nawaz, Jahandad Khan, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Haris, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Omair Bin Yousaf, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sufyan Moqim, Usman Khan.
Probable Playing XI
New Zealand:
- Finn Allen
- Tim Seifert (wk)
- Mark Chapman
- Daryl Mitchell
- Michael Bracewell (c)
- James Neesham
- Mitchell Hay
- Kyle Jamieson
- Ish Sodhi
- Jacob Duffy
- Ben Sears
Pakistan:
- Omair Yousuf
- Hasan Nawaz
- Mohammad Haris (wk)
- Salman Ali Agha (c)
- Khushdil Shah
- Shadab Khan
- Jahandad Khan
- Shaheen Afridi
- Haris Rauf
- Abrar Ahmed
- Mohammad Ali
New Zealand vs Pakistan Today’s Dream11/Fantasy Prediction
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Finn Allen (C) | Batter |
| Shaheen Afridi (VC) | Bowler |
| Tim Seifert | Wicketkeeper |
| Omair Yousuf | Batter |
| Mark Chapman | Batter |
| Daryl Mitchell | All-rounder |
| Shadab Khan | All-rounder |
| Kyle Jamieson | Bowler |
| Haris Rauf | Bowler |
| Ish Sodhi | Bowler |
| Jacob Duffy | Bowler |
Explanation:
- Finn Allen and Shaheen Afridi are the top picks for captain and vice-captain due to their match-winning abilities.
- Daryl Mitchell and Shadab Khan are key all-rounders who can contribute with both bat and ball.
- Kyle Jamieson and Haris Rauf are wicket-taking bowlers who can turn the game in their team’s favor.
Suggested Captain and Vice-Captain for Fantasy Team
- Captain: Finn Allen
- Vice-Captain: Shaheen Afridi
Players to Avoid in Fantasy Team
- Khushdil Shah: Inconsistent form with the bat.
- Mitchell Hay: Limited experience at the international level.
Also Check: Get The Best Dream11 Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team in Today’s Match
New Zealand are the favourites to win this match. Playing at home with a strong batting lineup and a balanced bowling attack, they have the edge over Pakistan.
New Zealand T20 History
New Zealand has played 225 T20Is, winning 116 and losing 101. They are known for their aggressive brand of cricket and have consistently performed well in T20 tournaments.
Pakistan T20 History
Pakistan has played 253 T20Is, winning 145 and losing 101. They are one of the most successful T20 teams, known for their strong bowling attack and explosive batting.
Head-to-Head Stats
| Matches Played | NZ Won | PAK Won | No Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 44 | 19 | 23 | 2 |
Pakistan holds a slight edge in head-to-head encounters, winning 23 out of 44 matches.
Pitch Report
The Hagley Oval pitch is balanced, offering assistance to both batters and bowlers. Pacers may find early movement, while spinners could come into play later. A score of 160-170 is considered competitive.
| Hagley Oval |
| City | Christchurch | ||
| Country | New Zealand | ||
| Matches Played | 11 | ||
| Matches Won Batting First | 4 | ||
| Matches Won Batting Second | 7 | ||
| Matches Won Winning Toss | 5 | ||
| Matches Won Losing Toss | 6 | ||
| Highest Individual Innings | 99* | D P Conway (New Zealand) | 22/02/2021 v Australia |
| Best Bowling | 4/28 | I S Sodhi (New Zealand) | 22/02/2021 v Australia |
| Highest Team Innings | 208/5 (New Zealand) | 12/10/2022 v Bangladesh | |
| Lowest Team Innings | 92 (New Zealand) | 21/01/2024 v Pakistan | |
| Highest Run Chase Achieved | 177/3 (Pakistan) | 13/10/2022 v Bangladesh | |
| Average Runs per Wicket | 26.90 | ||
| Average Runs per Over | 7.95 | ||
| Average Score Batting First | 159 | ||
Weather Report
The weather in Christchurch is expected to be clear, with no chances of rain. Temperatures will range between 12°C to 18°C, providing ideal conditions for cricket.
Broadcast Details
- Broadcaster: Fancode
Match Prediction
Winner: New Zealand
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Also, once the toss takes place, we might modify the Today Match Prediction as per the playing XIs. Please check this blog after the toss for the updated Prediction.
FAQ – NZ vs PAK 1st T20
Who is the favourite to win the 1st T20?
New Zealand are the favourites.
Who is the best player for fantasy teams?
Finn Allen and Shaheen Afridi are top picks.
What is the head-to-head record?
Pakistan have won 23 out of 44 matches.
What is the expected score on this pitch?
160-170 is a competitive total.
Who is the key player for New Zealand?
Finn Allen.
Who is the key player for Pakistan?
Shaheen Afridi.
What is the weather forecast?
Clear skies with no rain.
Where can I watch the match?
The match will be streamed on Fancode.
Disclaimer: Predictions are for entertainment purposes only. We don’t get involved in or promote betting or gambling. Also, We strongly discourage behaviors of participating in illegal activities related to cricket. Our experts try to be as correct as possible, but we do not guarantee 100% correctness.
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