Pakistan eyes changes for crucial third T20I clash against New Zealand

Pakistan heads into the third T20I of their five-match series against New Zealand at Eden Park, Auckland on Friday, looking to bounce back and gain momentum after falling behind 2-0.

With the series at the edge, interim coach Aaqib Javed has hinted at changes in Pakistan's lineup, while New Zealand, comfortably ahead, might continue to rotate their squad and test their bench strength.

Pakistan’s predicament: Seeking redemption

After two heavy defeats, Pakistan faces both strategic and psychological challenges. The bowling unit, expected to be their strong suit, has struggled on New Zealand’s small, batter-friendly grounds, while the inexperienced batting lineup has faltered under pressure. The second T20I, shortened due to rain, saw Pakistan post 135-9 in 15 overs, a total easily chased by New Zealand in 13.1 overs with five wickets to spare.

Interim coach Aaqib Javed, addressing media on Thursday, admitted to the team’s shortcomings but expressed hope for a turnaround. “People are upset after losing two matches. We may make one or two changes in the third T20I,” he stated.

A major focus for the team has been building a specialised T20 squad with an eye on the Asia Cup and T20 World Cup, both to be held in India later this year.

"Strike rate holds great importance in this format," Javed emphasized.

Playing XI tweaks

One of the key changes likely to be made is the return of leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed in place of pacer Mohammad Ali.

A reliable source confirmed to Nukta on Wednesday that “Abrar will return to the side, taking Ali’s spot." Abrar played the first T20I in Christchurch, where he picked up the wicket of Tim Seifert but bowled just 2.1 overs, conceding 15 runs. His control and variations might be valuable at Eden Park.

Mohammad Ali, on the other hand, endured a nightmare debut in the second T20I at Dunedin. Finn Allen tore into him, hitting three sixes in Ali’s opening over which cost 18 runs. His second over wasn’t any better, with Seifert smashing him for 16 more runs.

Pakistan is also likely to bring in Omair Bin Yousaf or Usman Khan in place of Hasan Nawaz, who was dismissed for ducks in both previous matches. This change aims to solidify the top order, which has been brittle so far.

Javed remained optimistic: “If our batters score well at the top, we can win. The Pakistan team will make a comeback.”

Pakistan likely XI: Mohammad Haris (wk), Omair Bin Yousaf, Salman Agha (c), Irfan Khan, Shadab Khan, Abdul Samad, Khushdil Shah, Jahandad Khan, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed

New Zealand: Confident and experimental

Despite missing several IPL-bound stars, New Zealand has demonstrated depth and tactical flexibility. They dominated the first game, bowling Pakistan out for 91, with Kyle Jamieson starring with figures of 3/8 in four overs. However, in the second match, Jamieson was rested in favour of Zakary Foulkes, who went for 32 runs in three overs without picking up a wicket.

Similarly, Tim Robinson, who scored an unbeaten 18 in the first match, was replaced by veteran all-rounder James Neesham. With a 2-0 lead, New Zealand might continue experimenting, giving opportunities to fringe players without risking the series.

Captain Michael Bracewell has led the side with composure, utilizing his bowling resources well and allowing the batting core of Seifert, Allen, Mitchell, and Chapman to flourish. Seifert, in particular, has been in top form, playing key roles in both victories.

New Zealand likely XI: Tim Seifert, Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, Mitchell Hay (wk), Michael Bracewell (c), Zakary Foulkes, Jacob Duffy, Ish Sodhi, Ben Sears.

Eden Park: A batting paradise

Eden Park is one of the most batting-friendly venues in world cricket. The ground’s short boundaries, especially square of the wicket, often result in high-scoring contests.

Pakistan would remember the hammering they took at the same venue last year when New Zealand piled up 226/8, with Allen, Mitchell, and Chapman dominating. The trio will again be key to New Zealand’s chances.

However, the same conditions could work in Pakistan’s favor if their batters can finally find form. Players like Mohammad Haris, Khushdil Shah, and Salman Agha will need to step up and exploit the ground dimensions to their advantage.

What’s at stake?

For Pakistan, it’s about regaining confidence, testing new talent, and keeping the series alive. A 3-0 deficit would be demoralizing, especially ahead of crucial tournaments. Javed has stressed that the team’s long-term focus is on the Asia Cup and T20 World Cup, but a win in Auckland could be a much-needed morale booster.

For New Zealand, it’s about building squad depth and preparing backup players for future challenges. The hosts will aim to seal the series while continuing to assess their bench strength.