Pakistan Looks to Level Series Against New Zealand in Exciting Gaddafi Stadium Showdown

Written by: Arvind Chauhan, Reviewed by: Ruchi Deshmukh, Last Updated: April 27, 2024

The cricketing excitement is set to reach its zenith as Pakistan gears up to take on New Zealand in the fifth and final T20 International (T20I) match at Lahore's iconic Gaddafi Stadium on April 27. With the Black Caps leading the series 2-1, Pakistan finds itself in a must-win situation to level the battle and salvage a share of the honors.

Date and Time: April 27; 02:30 pm GMT/ 08:00 pm IST/ 07:30 pm local
Venue: Gaddafi Cricket Stadium, Lahore

Series Context and Scenario

New Zealand has showcased its prowess throughout the series, demonstrating a blend of experience and emerging talent. The Black Caps will be aiming to clinch another victory to seal the series triumph on Pakistani soil, capping off a successful tour.

On the contrary, Pakistan, under the leadership of Babar Azam, faces a crucial challenge. With the series on the line, the Pakistani team will be determined to bounce back and deliver a performance worthy of their reputation in front of their home crowd.

Gaddafi Cricket Stadium Pitch Report

The pitch at Gaddafi Stadium is expected to favor the batsmen, providing good bounce and carry. While the pacers may initially find some assistance, especially under the lights, the track is likely to settle down as the match progresses. Spinners, therefore, could play a pivotal role as the pitch dries out, extracting turn and variable bounce.

Dream11 Prediction Picks

For fantasy cricket enthusiasts, here are some key players to consider for your Dream11 team:

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

Dream11 Prediction Captain and Vice-Captain Choices

Choice 1: Tim Robinson (c), Saim Ayub (vc)
Choice 2: Fakhar Zaman (c), Mark Chapman (vc)

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 the cricketing world eagerly awaits the outcome of this decisive T20 clash between Pakistan and New Zealand, all eyes will be on Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium. With both teams boasting talent across the board, expect an enthralling contest filled with breathtaking strokes, strategic bowling, and nail-biting moments. Will Pakistan rise to the occasion and level the series, or will New Zealand clinch victory and seal their dominance? The answer awaits as the teams prepare to take center stage in this epic T20 battle.