New Zealand reached 54/2 after 12.5 overs in the opening match of the tri-series against Pakistan at Gaddafi Stadium on Thursday. Kane Williamson was unbeaten on 22, with Daryl Mitchell on 1.
Shaheen Shah Afridi struck early, removing Will Young for 4 in the first over. Abrar Ahmed then claimed the wicket of Rachin Ravindra for 25 in the 8th over.
Pakistan’s captain, Mohammad Rizwan, earlier mentioned that had they won the toss, they would have also opted to bat first.
He emphasised the importance of the tri-series as vital preparation for the upcoming Champions Trophy, highlighting its relevance to their future challenges.
Rizwan also confirmed that Babar Azam will open the batting alongside Fakhar Zaman, with the two players taking the initial responsibility. The squad includes three fast bowlers: Haris Rauf, Shaheen Afridi, and Naseem Shah.
Pakistan and New Zealand both are gearing up for the upcoming Champions Trophy.
While the two sides will also meet in the opening match of the prestigious tournament in Karachi, this game marks the first at the newly renovated Gaddafi Stadium.
Playing XIs
Pakistan: Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Mohammad Rizwan, Salman Ali Agha, Tayyab Tahir, Khushdil Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed.
New Zealand: Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (wk), Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c), Ben Sears, Matt Henry, Will O’Rourke.
