NZ vs PAK Tri-Series Opener : How Santner Men Could Shock Pakistan in Their Own Backyard

JYNEWS, NZ vs PAK Tri-Series Opener : The 2025 ODI Tri-Series kicks off with a blockbuster clash between Pakistan and New Zealand at the newly-renovated Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. With the Champions Trophy just days away, this series serves as crucial preparation for both teams. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this high-stakes encounter.

Match Details: The Essential Information

Date: February 8, 2025
Time: 2:30 PM IST (2:00 PM Local Time)
Venue: Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
Series: First ODI of Pakistan-New Zealand-South Africa Tri-Series

Where to Watch: Your Viewing Guide

Television Coverage:

• India: Sony Sports Network (Sony Sports Ten 5, Sony Sports Ten 5 HD)
• Pakistan: PTV Sports, Ten Sports
• Global: Various regional broadcasters

Live Streaming:

• India: SonyLIV app and website, JioTV, FanCode
• Global: Check local streaming partners

Team Preview: Strengths and Strategies

New Zealand Under Santner:

• Mitchell Santner leads a mix of experience and youth
• Kane Williamson’s return strengthens batting
• Focus on spin bowling in subcontinent conditions
• Strong pace attack with Ferguson and Henry

Pakistan’s Home Advantage:

• Mohammad Rizwan captains in-form squad
• Recent 3-0 whitewash over South Africa
• Shaheen Afridi leads potent pace attack
• Babar Azam key to batting success

Key Player Battles to Watch

1. Mitchell Santner vs Pakistani Top Order

• Santner’s left-arm spin crucial in middle overs
• Strong record against right-handed batsmen
• Will target Babar Azam’s initial movements

2. Shaheen Afridi vs NZ Openers

• New ball battle could decide game’s course
• Conway and Young face stern test
• First powerplay crucial for both teams

Pitch and Conditions

The Gaddafi Stadium pitch traditionally:

• Offers good batting conditions initially
• Takes spin as game progresses
• Evening dew could impact bowling
• Temperature expected around 22°C

Team Compositions

Pakistan Likely XI:
Mohammad Rizwan (c), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Khushdil Shah, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, Abrar AhmedNew Zealand Likely XI:
Devon Conway, Will Young, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Tom Latham, Mitchell Santner (c), Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson, Will O’Rourke, Michael Bracewell

Series Schedule

• February 8: Pakistan vs New Zealand (Lahore)
• February 10: New Zealand vs South Africa (Lahore)
• February 12: Pakistan vs South Africa (Karachi)
• February 14: Final (Karachi)

Prediction and Analysis

While Pakistan enters as favorites given their home conditions and recent form, New Zealand’s balanced side and Santner’s tactical acumen make them dangerous opponents. The toss could prove crucial, with dew likely to influence the evening session.Key factors that could determine the outcome:

• How NZ handles Pakistan’s pace attack
• Impact of spinners in middle overs
• Performance of top three batsmen
• Dew factor in second innings

Final Thoughts

This opening encounter sets the tone for not just the tri-series but also the upcoming Champions Trophy. With both teams featuring a mix of established stars and emerging talents, cricket fans are in for a treat.

Q&A: Your Questions Answered

Q: Why is this series important before Champions Trophy?
A: Provides crucial match practice and helps teams finalize combinations for the major tournament.

Q: Can Santner succeed as captain in subcontinental conditions?
A: His experience in IPL and previous tours makes him well-equipped for the challenge.

Q: What makes this tri-series unique?
A: First major ODI tri-series in Pakistan since 2004, featuring three Champions Trophy contenders.

Q: How crucial is Kane Williamson’s return?
A: Adds stability to NZ batting and provides vital experience in Asian conditions.