Rain could put a dampener on the much-anticipated five-match T20I series between Pakistan and New Zealand, as reported by Geo News.
The action-packed series is scheduled to commence on April 18 at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, with all matches slated to take place there. However, the forecast doesn’t look promising, with rainfall and thunderstorms predicted to hit the city, potentially disrupting the matches throughout the week.
In preparation for the T20 World Cup 2024 set for June, both teams are eager to fine-tune their squads and assess players’ performances ahead of the marquee event.
New Zealand, led by experienced all-rounder Michael Bracewell as skipper for the tour, faces the challenge of integrating players currently engaged in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 into their lineup. Bracewell, returning to international cricket after injury setbacks, assumes the captaincy role for the first time since March last year.
Meanwhile, Pakistan, under the leadership of Babar Azam, seeks redemption after their 4-1 defeat in the T20I series against New Zealand earlier this year. The squad boasts notable comebacks, including star pacer Mohammad Amir and all-rounder Imad Wasim, who reversed their retirements to rejoin the team.
Azhar Mahmood takes charge as head coach for the series, supported by Wahab Riaz as senior team manager and Mohammad Yousuf as batting coach. Saeed Ajmal continues his role as spin bowling coach, aiming to guide Pakistan to a victorious series against the Kiwis.
Both teams have announced their squads for the thrilling five-match T20I series, promising an exciting battle between cricketing powerhouses:
Pakistan Squad:
Babar Azam (c), Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Rizwan, Mohammad Amir, Irfan Niazi, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Afridi, Usman Khan, Zaman Khan, Usama Mir.
New Zealand Squad:
Michael Bracewell (c), Tom Blundell, Mark Chapman, Josh Clarkson, Jacob Duffy, Dean Foxcroft, Ben Lister, Cole McConchie, Zack Fowlkes, Jimmy Neesham, Will O’Rourke, Tim Robinson, Ben Sears, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi.
