Last Updated on 2 days by Charbel Coorey
It is very likely that by the time this game starts, both sides would have been eliminated from the tournament.
This is especially disappointing for New Zealand, the number two ranked T20I side in the world, boasting a number of fantastic performers. They began the tournament with the two toughest tests in the group – India and Australia – which they haven’t passed. Now, pride is all they will be playing for, which will be a test of their morale and commitment. Can they pick up their first win of the tournament?
Pakistan kept their very slim semi final hopes alive with a win over Ireland, but they still aren’t producing the cricket they would crave. Skipper Javeria Khan carried Pakistan in that game, and will need more support if they are to topple New Zealand. Can Pakistan make it two wins in a row?
Key to a New Zealand win
The White Ferns did well to restrict Australia after being on the end of another Alyssa Healy onslaught, but that is where the joy ended.
Losing three wickets inside your first three overs won’t win you many matches, and it proved to be the case, with Suzie Bates batting through to the 15th over for her 48, with the score at 99/7 at the fall of her wicket. New Zealand’s batting has to step up in this game to deliver pride, with eyes on the likes of Sophie Devine and Amy Satterthwaite, who need to step up.
Also, an opportunity awaits for New Zealand’s bowlers, who had an especially tough time against India. Pakistan are in need of their skipper Javeria Khan to get runs, which makes her a key wicket for New Zealand. Can they get her wicket early?
Key to a Pakistan win
Five of six Pakistani bowlers took at least a wicket vs Ireland, putting together a cohesive bowling display that they will need to repeat. Granted, New Zealand represent more established opposition, so the onus remains on the likes of Sana Mir, Nashra Sandhu, Aliya Riaz and Nida Dar to get in the wickets. Can they dismiss the great Suzie Bates early?
Also, what challenge will Pakistan provide to New Zealand’s bowlers? Javeria Khan was superb in her 74* against Ireland, piercing the field when she had the chance, which was limited at times due to lack of strike rotation at the other end. Can Pakistan improve on this today, in conjunction with runs from the captain?
Possible teams
New Zealand: 1. Suzie Bates, 2. Anna Peterson, 3. Sophie Devine, 4. Amy Satterthwaite (c), 5. Katey Martin (wk), 6. Maddy Green, 7. Bernadine Bezuidenhout, 8. Leigh Kasperek, 9. Hannah Rowe, 10. Amelia Kerr, 11. Lea Tahuhu
Pakistan: 1. Nahida Khan, 2. Ayesha Zafar, 3. Javeria Khan (c), 4. Umaima Sohail, 5. Nida Dar, 6. Bismah Maroof, 7. Aliya Riaz, 8. Sana Mir, 9. Sidra Nawaz (wk), 10. Aiman Anwer, 11. Nashra Sandhu
Stats and Facts
- New Zealand have won the past five T20Is against Pakistan.
- If India win their game against Ireland before this match, Pakistan are out.
Prediction
I believe Pakistan will be out of contention for the semis before the game begins, as India will beat Ireland.
New Zealand have lots of quality that they haven’t shown this tournament to date, and I think today will be their first win.
Thanks for reading!
