The stage is set for the third One Day International (ODI) cricket match between Pakistan and New Zealand, hosted at Karachi’s National Bank Cricket Arena. As the cricket world waits in anticipation, Pakistan is leading the five-match series 2-0, and is considering modifying its team lineup for the upcoming match.
Iftikhar Ahmed, initially a substitute for middle-order batsman Haris Sohail, is anticipated to take Abdullah Shafique’s place in the Karachi game, most likely occupying the fifth position, according to inside sources.
These sources also disclosed that rising star Ihsanullah injured his bowling arm in Monday’s practice session. As a result, he is currently in pain and is expected to be replaced by Shaheen Shah Afridi, who sat out the previous match.
In his endeavor to secure the series, team captain Babar Azam is likely to command a slightly altered team. If Pakistan succeeds in winning the ongoing ODI series, it would mark their first triumph over the New Zealand team since 2011.
Both teams are using this series as a precursor to the 2023 ICC World Cup set to take place in India. The remaining two ODIs of the current series are scheduled for May 5th and 7th, hosted at the same location.
In a press conference held in Rawalpindi, Babar mentioned that the current ODI series against New Zealand is an essential part of their preparations for the World Cup and the Asia Cup.
“These five matches are vital for our World Cup readiness,” Babar stated. He emphasized that with only eight ODIs remaining, including the Asia Cup, before the grand event, it’s critical to make the most of these games.
