Islamabad, Feb 10: New Zealand won the toss and opted to bowl first against South Africa in the second match of the Pakistan Tri-Nation Series at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
With early morning conditions favoring swing, New Zealand’s bowlers will look to exploit the movement and put South Africa under pressure from the outset.
South Africa, led by captain Temba Bavuma, has named four debutants in their playing XI: Matthew Breetzke, Mihlali Mpongwana, Senuran Muthusamy, and Eathan Bosch.
This marks the first time in history that South Africa has introduced four debutants in a single ODI. On the other hand, New Zealand made just one change to their squad, bringing in Devon Conway in place of Rachin Ravindra.
Match Update
South Africa made a steady start, reaching 6/0 in 1.2 overs. Skipper Temba Bavuma (3 off 4) and Matthew Breetzke (2 off 4) are at the crease, while Matt Henry and Will O’Rourke have opened the bowling attack for New Zealand.
The Lahore surface, known for offering movement to fast bowlers early on, is expected to become more batting-friendly as the match progresses. With the Champions Trophy on the horizon, New Zealand head coach Gary Stead has hinted at a rotation policy to manage the workload of their pace bowlers in the upcoming fixtures.
Adding to the historical significance, this game marks the first day ODI played in Pakistan since 2008. Cricket enthusiasts have expressed excitement, reminiscing about the golden era of morning ODIs in the 1990s.
Read More:
Haris Rauf’s Injury Shakes Pakistan’s Champions Trophy Hopes
Playing XIs
New Zealand: Devon Conway, Will Young, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (wk), Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c), Ben Sears, Matt Henry, Will O’Rourke.
South Africa: Temba Bavuma (c), Matthew Breetzke, Jason Smith, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Wiaan Mulder, Mihlali Mpongwana, Senuran Muthusamy, Eathan Bosch, Junior Dala, Lungi Ngidi, Tabraiz Shamsi.
With both teams looking to make a strong impact in the series, this match promises to be a thrilling encounter. Fans are eagerly waiting to see how the debutants perform and whether New Zealand’s bowlers can capitalize on the favorable conditions.
