Pakistan faces New Zealand in a must win clash of the tournament. Both teams are desperate for a win to keep their chances alive in the tournament. New Zealand are still better placed in the points table. They are at the fourth position while Pakistan is at sixth.
After winning the toss, Pakistan captain Babar said, “We will have a bowl first because of moisture on the surface. We have good bowling and we are trying to hit good lengths and execute our plans. We have one change. Usama Mir is not playing and Hasan Ali is playing. I’m feeling good (with the form), but not been able to finish games, I will try my best to enjoy myself and looking forward to the game.”
Meanwhile, New Zealand skipper Williamson said, “Slightly different looking surface to what we expect here. We will try to put a competitive target and adapt to the conditions. Nice to be back out here, obviously few niggles in the camp and the guys are very excited for the challenge today. We have 2 changes. Ish Sodhi comes in for Matt Henry and I come in for Will Young. Looks like it might take some turn. For us, it’s about sticking to our plans and adapting to conditions as best as we can.”
Why is Matt Henry not playing today?
New Zealand’s star fast bowler, Matt Henry, will not be available for the remaining matches of the 2023 ODI World Cup in India. He sustained a grade two tear in his right hamstring during the New Zealand vs. South Africa World Cup match on Wednesday. Leg Spinner Ish Sodhi replaced Matt Henry.
Playing XI
NZ- Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson(c), Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham(w), Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Trent Boult
PAK- Abdullah Shafique, Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam(c), Mohammad Rizwan(w), Iftikhar Ahmed, Saud Shakeel, Agha Salman, Shaheen Afridi, Hasan Ali, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Haris Rauf
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