New Zealand vs Pakistan 1st T20: Shahid Afridi Leads Pakistan in a New Era

Today marks the beginning of a new era in Pakistan cricket as Shahid Afridi leads the team for the first time. After a disappointing performance in the 2023 World Cup, the Pakistan Cricket Board appointed Afridi as the captain of the T20 team. The first T20 match against New Zealand today will be Afridi’s litmus test.

The Pakistan team is expected to see several changes for this series. Reports suggest that opening batsmen Sam Ayyub and Mohammad Rizwan may replace captain Babar Azam to open the innings.

Playing on their home ground, New Zealand welcomes back several senior players. Opener Devon Conway, who took a break during the series against Bangladesh, returns to the team and will start the innings with Finn Allen. Regular captain Ken Williamson is also fit and back in the team. Star fast bowler Matt Henry, who suffered an injury during the 2023 World Cup, is also part of the playing eleven today.

Pakistan’s bowling department looks strong with Haris Rauf, Imad Wasim, Usman Mir, Mohammad Nawaz, and Abraar Ahmed in the team. Spinners Usama Mir and Mohammad Nawaz will add depth to the squad. Aamer Jamil and Zaman Khan will also provide support in the bowling attack.

Possible Playing XI for Pakistan – Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan (wicketkeeper), Sam Ayyub, Azam Khan, Ifthikhar Ahmed, Aamer Jamil, Mohammad Nawaz, Shahid Afridi (captain), Haris Rauf, Usama Mir, and Zaman Khan.

Possible Playing XI for New Zealand – Devon Conway (wicketkeeper), Finn Allen, Ken Williamson (captain), Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Ish Sodhi, Matt Henry, and Adam Milne.