New Zealand win toss, choose to bat first against Pakistan

New Zealand won the toss and chose to bat first against Pakistan in the opening match of the tri-nation ODI series at Gaddafi Stadium on Saturday.

Pakistan’s captain, Mohammad Rizwan, mentioned that had they won the toss, they would have also opted to bat first.

He emphasized the importance of the tri-series as vital preparation for the upcoming Champions Trophy, highlighting its relevance to their future challenges.

Rizwan also confirmed that Babar Azam will open the batting alongside Fakhar Zaman, with the two players taking the initial responsibility. The squad includes three fast bowlers: Haris Rauf, Shaheen Afridi, and Naseem Shah.

Pakistan and New Zealand both are gearing up for the upcoming Champions Trophy.

While the two sides will also meet in the opening match of the prestigious tournament in Karachi, this game marks the first at the newly renovated Gaddafi Stadium.

Playing XIs

Pakistan: Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Mohammad Rizwan, Salman Ali Agha, Tayyab Tahir, Khushdil Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed.

New Zealand: Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (wk), Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c), Ben Sears, Matt Henry, Will O’Rourke.