The fifth and final T20 International (T20I) match between Pakistan and New Zealand promises to be a gripping encounter, set to unfold at Lahore's iconic Gaddafi Stadium on April 27. With New Zealand leading the series 2-1, Pakistan finds itself in a must-win situation to level the scores and salvage pride on home turf.
Series Overview
New Zealand has displayed resilience and skill throughout the tour, securing victories in two out of the four T20Is played so far. However, Pakistan remains determined to bounce back and clinch a crucial win in the final match. The Gaddafi Stadium, renowned for its historic significance and lively atmosphere, will provide the perfect backdrop for this intense battle between two competitive sides.
Match Details
- Date and Time: April 27; 02:30 pm GMT / 08:00 pm IST / 07:30 pm local time
- Venue: Gaddafi Cricket Stadium, Lahore
Gaddafi Cricket Stadium Pitch Report
The pitch at Gaddafi Stadium is expected to favor batsmen, offering excellent bounce and carry. While the pacers might find some assistance early on, particularly with the new ball, the pitch is likely to dry out as the match progresses. Spinners could play a crucial role in the latter stages of the game, exploiting any turn and bounce on offer.
Dream11 Prediction Picks
For fantasy cricket enthusiasts, here are some key picks and potential captaincy choices for the PAK vs NZ match:
- Wicketkeeper: Tom Blundell
- Batters: Babar Azam, Mark Chapman, Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, Tim Robinson
- All-rounders: Jimmy Neesham, Shadab Khan, Michael Bracewell
- Bowlers: Ish Sodhi, Mohammed Amir
Captain and Vice-Captain Picks:
- Choice 1: Tim Robinson (c), Saim Ayub (vc)
- Choice 2: Fakhar Zaman (c), Mark Chapman (vc)
Backup Players: Iftikhar Ahmed, Abbas Afridi, William Orourke, Dean Foxcroft
Squads
Pakistan:
- Babar Azam (c)
- Saim Ayub
- Mohammad Rizwan
- Usman Khan (wk)
- Irfan Khan
- Shadab Khan
- Iftikhar Ahmed
- Shaheen Afridi
- Naseem Shah
- Abbas Afridi
- Abrar Ahmed
- Mohammad Amir
- Imad Wasim
- Fakhar Zaman
- Usama Mir
- Azam Khan
- Zaman Khan
New Zealand:
- Michael Bracewell (c)
- Tim Robinson
- Tim Seifert (wk)
- Dean Foxcroft
- Mark Chapman
- James Neesham
- Cole McConchie
- Zakary Foulkes
- Ish Sodhi
- Jacob Duffy
- William ORourke
- Tom Blundell
- Josh Clarkson
- Ben Sears
- Ben Lister
As Pakistan and New Zealand gear up for the final showdown, expect a fiercely contested match filled with exciting cricketing moments. With star players on both sides showcasing their skills, the Gaddafi Stadium will witness high-intensity action as Pakistan aims to level the series and New Zealand seeks to clinch victory and seal their dominance in this T20I tour. Stay tuned for what promises to be an enthralling clash at one of Pakistan's most iconic cricketing venues!