Match Preview
Pakistan and New Zealand are set to lock horns in the highly anticipated final of the Pakistan ODI Tri-series at the iconic National Stadium in Karachi on Friday, February 14, 2025. With both teams having plenty to prove before the upcoming Champions Trophy, this clash promises fireworks!
Road to the Final
Pakistan’s Comeback Story:
- The Mohammad Rizwan-led side started the series on a shaky note, losing to New Zealand by 78 runs in Lahore.
- However, they roared back against South Africa, chasing down 352 runs thanks to a stunning 260-run partnership between Mohammad Rizwan (122)* and Salman Agha (134).
- Pakistan sealed a six-wicket victory with an over to spare, showcasing their powerful batting lineup.
New Zealand’s Dominant Run:
- Under the leadership of Mitchell Santner, the BlackCaps have been unstoppable.
- They beat both Pakistan and South Africa convincingly—by 78 runs and six wickets, respectively.
- With the Champions Trophy around the corner, New Zealand will aim to continue their winning momentum.
Match Details
- Match: Pakistan vs New Zealand, Final – Tri-Nation Series 2025
- Venue: National Stadium, Karachi
- Date & Time: Friday, February 14, 2025, 2:30 PM (IST)
- Live Broadcast: Sports18/Star Sports Network
- Streaming: Disney+ Hotstar (app & website)
Pitch Report – National Stadium, Karachi
- The surface is known for its batting-friendly conditions.
- Pacers may get some swing early, but the pitch flattens out, favoring stroke play.
- Spinners might come into play in the middle overs, but large turn is unlikely.
- Toss Prediction: The team winning the toss may choose to bat first, with an average first-innings score of around 290+.
Head-to-Head Record: PAK vs NZ
- Matches Played: 117
- Pakistan Wins: 61
- New Zealand Wins: 52
- Tied: 1
- No Result: 3
- First Fixture: Feb 11, 1973
- Last Fixture: Feb 08, 2025
Playing XIs
Pakistan (PAK):
Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel,Mohammad Rizwan (wk/c),Salman Agha, Tayyab Tahir,Khushdil Shah, Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Hasnain,Naseem Shah,Abrar Ahmed
New Zealand (NZ):
Will Young, Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (wk),Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell,Mitchell Santner (c),Matt Henry, Ben Sears, William O’Rourke
Probable Best Performers
Best Batter: Kane Williamson (NZ)
With 191 runs in two matches, Williamson has been in sublime form. His unbeaten 133 against South Africa* was a masterclass in ODI batting. The Kiwi veteran will look to anchor New Zealand’s innings once again.
Best Bowler: Shaheen Afridi (PAK)
With 5 wickets in 2 games, Shaheen has been lethal with the new ball. His ability to strike early and break partnerships makes him Pakistan’s trump card.
Conclusion
The grand finale of the Tri-Nation Series promises to be a thrilling encounter. With both teams in prime form and the Champions Trophy looming, stakes are sky-high. Expect an intense battle between Pakistan’s fiery pacers and New Zealand’s experienced batting lineup.
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Who will emerge as the champion—Pakistan’s power or New Zealand’s consistency? Tune in for the epic showdown!