New Zealand look to extend winning run vs Pakistan
Wellington, Jan 5 (CRICKETNMORE) - Fresh from their recent triumph over the West Indies, New Zealand will aim to continue the momentum when they host Pakistan in the first of a five-match One-Day International (ODI) series at the Basin Reserve
Pakistan could also be troubled by the Kiwi pace attack, led by Tim Southee and Trent Boult, as they attempt to make the most of home conditions. The likes of Matt Henry, Mitchell Santer, and Lockie Ferguson should also prove a handful.
Meanwhile, Pakistan have the arsenal to match the hosts shot-for-shot, especially given the return of Mohammed Amir, who would pair-up with Hasan Ali, the top-ranked ODI bowler.
Azhar Ali, Mohammad Hafeez, Shoaib Malik and Babar Azam -- their top run-scorer in ODIs in 2017 -- form the batting core, with Fakhar Zaman, the opening batsman, capable of giving the visitors a brisk start, along the lines of that match-defining century in the Champions Trophy 2017 final.
Skipper Sarfraz Ahmed will also lead a fairly young bunch on the tour, including Mohammad Nawaz and Shadab Khan, the spinners, and Imam-ul-Haq, the 22-year-old opening batsman and nephew of former captain Inzamam-ul-Haq.
