Pakistan Looks to Level Series Against New Zealand in Exciting Gaddafi Stadium Showdown

Written by: Siddharth Jain, Reviewed by: Alisha Patel, Last Updated: April 27, 2024

The Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore is set to host a thrilling finale as Pakistan and New Zealand face off in the fifth and final T20 International (T20I) match on April 27. With the series delicately poised at 2-1 in favor of New Zealand, both teams are gearing up for a high-stakes battle to determine the ultimate winner of this closely contested series.

Series Overview and Stakes

New Zealand's Black Caps have demonstrated their prowess throughout the series, currently holding the advantage with a 2-1 lead. A victory in the final match would not only secure the series for them but also affirm their dominance in challenging conditions against a formidable Pakistani side.

On the flip side, Pakistan finds themselves in a do-or-die situation. With the series on the line, the Men in Green will be determined to level the score and salvage a crucial victory on home soil. Led by the charismatic Babar Azam, Pakistan will look to rally their strengths and produce a clinical performance to thwart New Zealand's quest for supremacy.

Match Details

Date and Time: April 27; 02:30 pm GMT / 08:00 pm IST / 07:30 pm local
Venue: Gaddafi Cricket Stadium, Lahore

Gaddafi Stadium Pitch Report

The track at Gaddafi Stadium is expected to offer assistance to the batsmen, with excellent bounce and carry. While pacers may find some initial swing and seam movement, these conditions are likely to diminish as the game progresses. As the pitch dries out, spinners are expected to play a pivotal role, exploiting any turn and grip on offer.

Dream11 Prediction Picks

For fantasy cricket enthusiasts, here are some key picks for the PAK vs NZ Dream11 team:

Wicketkeeper: Tom Blundell
Batters: Babar Azam, Mark Chapman, Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, Tim Robinson
All-rounders: Jimmy Neesham, Shadab Khan, Michael Bracewell
Bowlers: Ish Sodhi, Mohammed Amir

Dream11 Prediction Captain and Vice-Captain

Considering the match dynamics and player form, here are the recommended choices for captain and vice-captain:

Choice 1: Tim Robinson (c), Saim Ayub (vc)
Choice 2: Fakhar Zaman (c), Mark Chapman (vc)

Squads

Pakistan:

Babar Azam (c)
Saim Ayub
Mohammad Rizwan
Usman Khan (wk)
Irfan Khan
Shadab Khan
Iftikhar Ahmed
Shaheen Afridi
Naseem Shah
Abbas Afridi
Abrar Ahmed
Mohammad Amir
Imad Wasim
Fakhar Zaman
Usama Mir
Azam Khan
Zaman Khan

New Zealand:

Michael Bracewell (c)
Tim Robinson
Tim Seifert (wk)
Dean Foxcroft
Mark Chapman
James Neesham
Cole McConchie
Zakary Foulkes
Ish Sodhi
Jacob Duffy
William ORourke
Tom Blundell
Josh Clarkson
Ben Sears
Ben Lister

Key Players to Watch Out For

Babar Azam (Pakistan): The prolific batsman and captain will be instrumental in leading Pakistan's charge with his elegant strokeplay and consistency.
Mark Chapman (New Zealand): Chapman's batting prowess has been pivotal for New Zealand, and his ability to anchor the innings will be crucial in the final showdown.
Saim Ayub (Pakistan): The emerging talent has shown promise with the bat and will look to make a significant impact in the decisive match.
Jimmy Neesham (New Zealand): A dynamic all-rounder, Neesham's contributions with both bat and ball could prove decisive for New Zealand.

As the cricketing world eagerly awaits the outcome of this thrilling encounter, all eyes will be on the Gaddafi Stadium as Pakistan and New Zealand vie for supremacy in the final T20I. With pride and series glory at stake, expect a fiercely contested battle filled with drama, skill, and electrifying moments on the field. Stay tuned for what promises to be an enthralling climax to this captivating series!