New Zealand Win Toss & Bat First in Tri-Series Opener Against Pakistan

Babar Azam to Open in ODIs for the First Time Since 2015

Lahore, February 8, 2025 – New Zealand have won the toss and opted to bat first against Pakistan in the opening match of the ODI tri-series at the newly renovated Gaddafi Stadium. This tournament, which also includes South Africa, serves as a crucial preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner emphasized the importance of adjusting to the conditions ahead of the Champions Trophy:

????️ "It's a good opportunity for us to get a look at these surfaces before the Champions Trophy."

Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan admitted he would have also preferred to bat first but remained confident in his team’s ability to chase.

Key Highlights from the Toss

• New Zealand bat first after winning the toss.
• Babar Azam to open in ODIs for the first time in nearly a decade, partnering Fakhar Zaman at the top.
• ⚡ Lockie Ferguson ruled out due to injury; Will O’Rourke, Ben Sears, and Matt Henry will handle pace duties for New Zealand.
• Pakistan's XI features three seamers, with Abrar Ahmed as the only frontline spinner.
• Khushdil Shah returns to Pakistan’s middle order.
  
  

  Playing XIs

  Pakistan XI:

  1️⃣ Fakhar Zaman
  2️⃣ Babar Azam
  3️⃣ Kamran Ghulam
  4️⃣ Mohammad Rizwan (c, wk)
  5️⃣ Tayyab Tahir
  6️⃣ Salman Ali Agha
  7️⃣ Khushdil Shah
  8️⃣ Shaheen Afridi
  9️⃣ Naseem Shah
   Haris Rauf
  1️⃣1️⃣ Abrar Ahmed

   New Zealand XI:

  1️⃣ Will Young
  2️⃣ Rachin Ravindra
  3️⃣ Kane Williamson
  4️⃣ Daryl Mitchell
  5️⃣ Tom Latham (wk)
  6️⃣ Glenn Phillips
  7️⃣ Michael Bracewell
  8️⃣ Mitchell Santner (c)
  9️⃣ Ben Sears
  Matt Henry
  1️⃣1️⃣ Will O'Rourke

  Pitch Report & Conditions

  The Gaddafi Stadium pitch is expected to be a flat batting track, offering good pace and bounce. The evening conditions might assist seamers under lights, making the second innings tricky for batters.