Eden Park Auckland Pitch Report: How Will The Surface Play For PAK vs NZ 3rd T20I?

Eden Park, Auckland [Source: @sohailimrangeo/X]

On Friday, Pakistan will take on New Zealand in the third T20 International of the ongoing five-match series. The much-awaited face-off will take place at Eden Park in Auckland. 

Led by Salman Ali Agha, Pakistan are on the brink of another series defeat, having lost two consecutive matches in the series. After a nine-wicket loss in the first game, the Men in Green were crushed by the Kiwis, who handed them another five-wicket drubbing in Dunedin. 

So, considering it's a do-or-die clash for Pakistan, the visitors must be aiming to evolve their performance in this game. As the stage is set for a riveting encounter, let's see how the surface at Eden Park in Auckland will behave throughout the contest. 

Eden Park Auckland Ground Stats In T20Is

Eden Park Auckland Pitch Report: Is the surface batting or bowling friendly?

The average run rate in last four men's T20I matches at Eden Park reads 9.51, signifying the track's conduciveness to batting. It generally presents a flat batting-friendly pitch where the batters enjoy their time in the middle. 

The fast bowlers could get a hint of movement in the air and off the pitch with the new ball. But overall, it will be an excellent batting deck with little help for the bowlers. Additionally, the small boundary dimensions on straighter sides could prompt the batters to go aerial straight over the bowler's head on anything in their arc. 

The spinners could get some turn as the game progresses. However, traditionally, batters and pacers, who can hit the deck and bowl cutters, have dominated the proceedings at this venue. Considering the teams setting the target have won the last five T20I matches in Auckland, it won't be surprising if the toss-winning team bats first. 

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