Pakistan are gearing up for the T20 World Cup 2024 with a five-match T20I series against New Zealand, due to start at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Thursday (18th April).
Under the leadership of Babar Azam, who was recently reappointed as white-ball captain, Pakistan have a strong squad strengthened by the return of experienced players Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim.
Imad's outstanding performance in Pakistan Super League (PSL) season nine has received widespread praise as his performances led Islamabad United to third title.
Despite not having a promising start, Imad showed remarkable resilience in the knockout stages and the final, winning several Player of the Match awards. He took a memorable five-wicket haul in the title match and also contributed valuable unbeaten runs.
On the other hand, Michael Bracewell will captain New Zealand, who are eager to compete despite missing several key players.
The likes of Kane Williamson, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner and others were unavailable for selection due to their involvement in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024.
New Zealand's preparations for the series were also further affected by the injuries to opener Finn Allen, who suffered a back injury, and fast bowler Adam Milne, who sustained an ankle injury. Both players were ruled out of the tour before the team's departure to Pakistan.
Likely lineups
Pakistan: Babar Azam (c), Saim Ayub, Mohammad Rizwan, Fakhar Zaman, Azam Khan (wk), Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Amir, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Afridi
New Zealand: Tim Seifert (wk), Mark Chapman, Cole McConchie, Josh Clarkson, Tim Robinson, Michael Bracewell (c), James Neesham, Dean Foxcroft, Ben Sears, Ish Sodhi, Will O’Rourke
- Babar Azam
