Pakistan's reappointed white-ball captain, Babar Azam, addressed the media ahead of the first T20I against New Zealand and confirmed that his relationship with Shaheen Shah Afridi goes back a long time. He also emphasized that they support each other in every situation and their aim is to put Pakistan first. The news comes after Afridi was removed as T20I skipper when Azam was reinstated as captain by the PCB.
The Kiwis look to test their bench strength while Pakistan seeks redemption in the 4th T20I to keep their hopes alive. With the series already in the pocket, New Zealand will aim for a clean sweep while Shaheen Afridi's side strives to find its rhythm before the T20 World Cup. After Finn Allen's explosive 137-run knock in the last match, the New Zealand-Pakistan encounter promises a thrilling contest filled with high stakes and intense action.
In an intense showdown at Seddon Park, opener Finn Allen led the charge for New Zealand with an explosive 74 off just 41 balls. Despite facing a setback when captain Kane Williamson retired hurt, the home team managed to post a formidable target of 194-8. Pakistan will need to chase down 195 to level the five-match series 1-1 after their loss in the first game.
Two highly anticipated T20 matches have been announced for the first week of January of 2024, with India facing off against Afghanistan at the University Oval in Dunedin and New Zealand facing Pakistan at the Punjab Cricket Association IS Bindra Stadium in Mohali. Fans of both countries' cricket teams are eagerly awaiting these matches and can stay updated by clicking the latest update icon. The first match between India and Afghanistan will take place on January 11 at 19:00 IST, while the match between New Zealand and Pakistan will take place on January 17.