New Zealand vs Pakistan – T20 International Tri-Nation Series Preview & Prediction
THE FACTS
When is New Zealand vs Pakistan taking place? Saturday, October 8th, 2022 – 07:10 (UK)
Where is New Zealand vs Pakistan taking place? Hagley Oval, Christchurch
What is the expected weather for New Zealand vs Pakistan? 9-12c with sunshine descending into clear skies later on and light winds
What channel is New Zealand vs Pakistan on? The match will be televised live on BT Sport in the UK
Where can I stream New Zealand vs Pakistan? BT Sport subscribers will be able to stream the match live via the BT Sport website and app
LAST MEETING
Pakistan beat New Zealand by five wickets
THE LOWDOWN
NEW ZEALAND
- New Zealand return to T20i action for the first time since August when they defeated West Indies by two games to one in a three-match series, coming off the back of a European tour which saw them play Ireland, Scotland and Netherlands.
- They will not be able to call upon the services of Daryl Mitchell, who has fractured a finger on his right hand after being hit in the hands leading up to this match and the 31-year-old is now a doubt for the upcoming T20 World Cup in Australia.
PAKISTAN
- Pakistan are back in action after defeating Bangladesh the previous day by 21 runs, scoring 167/5 before successfully keeping the shackles on their opponents, restricting the Tigers to just 146/8 in response.
- One of Pakistan’s star players stood out for them once again, Mohammad Rizwan striking 78 not out, but the bowling attack as a collective performed well with all five players utilised picking up at least one wicket.
THE PREDICTION
Pakistan come into this match with far more recent experience of playing T20i cricket than New Zealand and it remains to be seen as to whether that will have a decisive impact here. Not having Mitchell available is a blow to the hosts, but they still contain a very strong squad on paper, not to mention home advantage being in their favour. However, it could take the Black Caps time to really hit their straps, whilst Pakistan may just show that extra sharpness having already competed on this ground just yesterday, so consider backing the visitors to gain a second victory in as many days.
