AUCKLAND, New Zealand (Kashmir English): Pakistan will cross swords against New Zealand in the third T20 International of the ongoing five-match series at Eden Park in Auckland today (March 21).
The two sides will face off each other in the much-awaited especially after Pakistan lost the first T20I at Hagley Oval in Christchurch followed by another five-wicket loss in the subsequent game in Dunedin.
Today’s is a do-or-die game for Pakistan with several of its players struggling with horrible form. Pakistan may drop some non-performing players from their playing XI in the third T20I today.
Pakistan team reached Auckland a day before for the must-win third T20I game.
Green Shirts departed Dunedin for Auckland as they prepare for the third T20I after back-to-back losses in the series.
The national squad held a practice session at Eden Park as they look to recover from losses in the series.
In the second T20I, Pakistan failed to defend 135 in a rain-shortened 15-over contest. New Zealand’s openers, Tim Seifert and Finn Allen, launched a rapid 66-run stand, setting the tone for a dominant chase.
T20I series
As the series moves to Auckland, the Green Shirts’ batting has been inconsistent at times, and their bowling lacked effectiveness.
Opener Hasan Nawaz, in his debut series for Pakistan, has yet to make a significant score.
Shaheen Afridi, who has been struggling with the ball, was hammered for 26 runs in an over by Seifert in the second T20I. Pakistan will be hoping for a smart performance from him in the today’s match.
For the hosts, their bowlers have been exceptionally good, making the most of home conditions to trouble Pakistan’s batters throughout the series.
With the series slipping away, the touring side will aim for a turnaround in Auckland today to keep their chances alive.
