Pakistan vs New Zealand T20 Series 2025: First Match Preview, Squad Breakdown

The Pakistan National Cricket Team and New Zealand National Cricket Team are set to ignite their rivalry in the first T20 of the 2025 series at Hagley Oval, Christchurch, on March 16, 2025. With fresh faces, bold strategies, and a pace-friendly pitch, this PAK vs NZ clash promises edge-of-the-seat action. Below, we dissect the squads, analyze key matchups, and predict outcomes for this high-stakes New Zealand vs Pakistan T20 series.

PAK vs NZ 2025 Series: Match Details

Date: March 16, 2025

Venue: Hagley Oval, Christchurch

Time: [ 02:15 PM ]

Format: T20 International

Full Squad Lists for PAK vs NZ 1st T20

Pakistan Squad:

Captain: Salman Agha

Players: Omair Yousuf, Usman Khan (wk), Abdul Samad, Mohammad Haris, Khushdil Shah, Irfan Khan, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Afridi, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Sufiyan Muqeem, Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Jahandad Khan.

New Zealand Squad:

Captain: Michael Bracewell

Players: Tim Robinson, Tim Seifert (wk), Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, Ish Sodhi, Jacob Duffy, Ben Sears, Kyle Jamieson, William O’Rourke, Mitchell Hay.

Recent Trend: 

New Zealand won their last bilateral series, but Pakistan thrives in T20 World Cup encounters.

Hagley Oval Pitch Report & Conditions

Pitch Type: Grass-covered, pace-friendly surface with consistent bounce.

Average 1st Innings Score: 170-180 (T20Is at Hagley Oval).

Weather Forecast: Clear skies, 18–22°C – ideal for cricket.

Key Factor: Pacers dominate early, while spinners like Shadab and Sodhi may struggle unless the track wears down.

Match Preview: Tactical Battles to Watch

1. Pakistan’s Strengths:

Pace Quartet: Shaheen, Rauf, Abbas Afridi, and Mohammad Ali can exploit Hagley Oval’s bounce.

X-Factor Spinners: Shadab and Abrar must adapt quickly to limit New Zealand’s middle order.

2. New Zealand’s Game Plan:

Aggressive Openers: Finn Allen and Tim Robinson will aim to capitalize on the powerplay against Pakistan’s swing.

Death Bowling: Sears and Jamieson’s accuracy vs Pakistan’s lower-order hitters like Khushdil Shah.

3. Key Matchups:

Shaheen Afridi vs Finn Allen: Can Shaheen’s swing neutralize Allen’s explosive starts?

Shadab Khan vs Daryl Mitchell: Spin vs power-hitting in the middle overs.

Ben Sears vs Haris Rauf: A battle of pace in the death overs.

How to Watch PAK vs NZ Live

Broadcast: [Ten Sports ,Sony Sports Network, Sky Sports ]

Live Streaming: [Sony LIV, Tamasha, Tapmad]

Live Blog: Follow our real-time updates for scores, commentary, and fan reactions.

Predictions & Final Thoughts

Pakistan’s Chance: Their pace-heavy attack suits Hagley Oval, but the inexperienced batting lineup could falter under pressure.

New Zealand’s Edge: Home advantage, powerplay firepower, and death-bowling precision make them slight favorites.

Wildcard Performers:

Tim Robinson (NZ): The opener’s fearless approach could unsettle Pakistan.

Irfan Khan (PAK): A young all-rounder who might shine in crunch moments.

Conclusion

The PAK vs NZ 1st T20 at Hagley Oval is a battle of Pakistan’s raw pace against New Zealand’s calculated aggression. With both teams fielding new leaders and fresh talent, this match sets the tone for an unforgettable series. Will Salman Agha’s men defy odds, or will Bracewell’s Kiwis dominate at home? Tune in on March 16, 2025, for a cricketing spectacl .More....!