Pakistan is still rejoicing in the aftermath of their T20 World Cup victory over India. They are really confident going into their second match against New Zealand on Tuesday (October 26).
Pakistan won by a big 10-wicket margin on Sunday, thanks to a precise batting showing. Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam opened the innings with smooth fifties, making quick work of India’s 151.
Therefore, They will, however, have to be at their best against a Kiwi team that has proven to be flexible and formidable in the T20 World Cup. We take a look at the key player battles ahead of the match.
#1 Shaheen Shah Afridi vs Martin Guptill, a mouth-watering T20 World Cup clash
Afridi took all but one ball to eliminate India’s top opener, Rohit Sharma. If he gets rid of Martin Guptill, New Zealand’s most reliable opening batsman, the same way he got rid of him in the veteran’s first game of the T20 World Cup, it will be deja vu.
#2 Tim Southee vs Babar Azam
However, Southee is one wicket away from becoming the third bowler to reach 100 T20I wickets; will he be able to get rid of Azam? In New Zealand’s T20 World Cup season opener, the Kiwi fast will have a chance to leapfrog Shakib Al Hasan and Lasith Malinga.
#3 Kane Williamson vs Shadab Khan
Shadab Khan was one of the more cost-effective spinners who contributed to India’s difficulties. He’ll face Kane Williamson, a strong hitter who can switch gears with ease.
Much will be riding on Williamson, just as it will on Virat Kohli, as he tries to bat his way through the innings in order to put up a big total or chase it down.
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