Pakistan Opts to Bat in Tri-Series Final Against New Zealand; Faheem Returns, Sears Ruled Out

Karachi, February 2025 – Pakistan and New Zealand are set to face off in the much-anticipated Tri-Series final at the National Bank Cricket Arena in Karachi. This high-stakes clash comes just five days before the two teams meet again in the ICC Champions Trophy opener at the same venue.

Pakistan won the toss and elected to bat first, a decision influenced by the batting-friendly conditions and the opportunity to put New Zealand under pressure in a title-deciding encounter. Both teams have made key changes to their line-ups, with Pakistan recalling all-rounder Faheem Ashraf and New Zealand forced to make two changes due to injuries.

Pakistan Strengthens Bowling with Faheem’s Return

Faheem Ashraf Back in Action – Pakistan has brought back seam-bowling all-rounder Faheem Ashraf, replacing fast bowler Mohammad Hasnain. This will be Faheem’s first international appearance since the Perth Test in December 2023.

Faheem’s recent white-ball form has been outstanding – he was the second-highest wicket-taker in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) 2024, securing 20 wickets at an economy rate of 7.12 while also contributing with the bat. His return adds depth to Pakistan’s lower order and offers an extra seam-bowling option.

Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan expressed confidence in Faheem’s return, saying:
"His recent performances in franchise cricket prove he’s in good rhythm. We want to utilize his all-round abilities in this crucial final."

New Zealand Forced into Changes as Sears Ruled Out

Ben Sears’ Injury Blow – New Zealand suffered a major setback as pacer Ben Sears was ruled out of both the Tri-Series final and the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy due to injury.

New Zealand’s head coach Gary Stead confirmed:
"It’s unfortunate for Ben, but we’ve brought in Jacob Duffy, who has been in good form and will be part of our Champions Trophy squad as well."

Matt Henry Rested as a Precaution – New Zealand’s pace spearhead Matt Henry was rested due to a minor knee niggle, allowing all-rounder Nathan Smith to step into the playing XI.

Lockie Ferguson Still Recovering – New Zealand is also missing Lockie Ferguson, who sustained a hamstring injury during the ILT20 in the UAE. Though he has resumed bowling, the team is not rushing his return.

Rachin Ravindra Still Unavailable – The young all-rounder remains sidelined after suffering a forehead injury in the Tri-Series opener. While his condition has improved, New Zealand has opted not to risk him before the Champions Trophy.

Tactical Approach & Match Expectations

Pakistan’s Decision to Bat First – The Karachi pitch has historically favored batting first, and Pakistan will aim to set a competitive total before their strong bowling attack takes over. With players like Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, and Mohammad Rizwan in the top order, the team hopes to put New Zealand under scoreboard pressure.

New Zealand’s Bowling Challenge – With Sears and Henry unavailable, the responsibility falls on Jacob Duffy, Nathan Smith, and captain Mitchell Santner to contain Pakistan’s batting lineup.

Eyes on Williamson & Conway – New Zealand’s experienced duo of Kane Williamson and Devon Conway will be crucial in the chase, should Pakistan post a big total.

Playing XIs for the Final

Pakistan XI:

1️⃣ Babar Azam
2️⃣ Fakhar Zaman
3️⃣ Saud Shakeel
4️⃣ Mohammad Rizwan (capt & wk)
5️⃣ Salman Agha
6️⃣ Tayyab Tahir
7️⃣ Faheem Ashraf
8️⃣ Khushdil Shah
9️⃣ Shaheen Shah Afridi
Naseem Shah
1️⃣1️⃣ Abrar Ahmed

New Zealand XI:

1️⃣ Devon Conway
2️⃣ Will Young
3️⃣ Kane Williamson
4️⃣ Daryl Mitchell
5️⃣ Tom Latham (wk)
6️⃣ Glenn Phillips
7️⃣ Michael Bracewell
8️⃣ Mitchell Santner (capt)
9️⃣ Jacob Duffy
 Nathan Smith
1️⃣1️⃣ Will O'Rourke