NZ vs PAK 2nd ODI who will win? [Source: @BLACKCAPS/X.com]
Pakistan will be up against New Zealand in the 2nd ODI of the 3-game series. The match will be held at Seddon Park in Hamilton on April 2nd starting from 3.30 AM IST.
After a disappointing T20I series, Pakistan’s hopes of a competitive ODI battle have faded quickly. Despite the return of star players Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, the visitors failed to turn things around in the first match in Napier, losing by 73 runs.
On the other hand, New Zealand’s dominance at home continued as they turned a shaky 50/3 into a commanding 344/9 in the last ODI. Mark Chapman, fresh off a career-best 132, and Daryl Mitchell, who smashed 76, showcased the team's middle-order strength.
Now, as the series shifts to Hamilton, New Zealand has a golden chance to wrap up the series early.
Babar Azam showcased resilience in the first ODI, scoring 78 off 83 balls. He anchored the team’s chase with 5 five boundaries and 3 sixes at a strike rate of 93.98. His crucial partnerships with Mohammad Rizwan and Agha Salman kept Pakistan in contention.
His overall record in ODI cricket is also noteworthy. In 129 games, he has amassed 6184 runs with an 87.99 strike rate and a 55.71 average. Hence, Babar will play a key role in setting the tone for Pakistan with the bat.
Daryl Mitchell
With Mark Chapman ruled out of the next ODI, Daryl Mitchell will be tasked to hold the form in the middle overs. In the first ODI, he scored 76 off 84 balls.
His knock, laced with 4 boundaries and as many sixes at a strike rate of 90.48. Overall, in 50 ODIs, Mitchell has accumulated 1980 runs with a 95.00 strike rate.
Seddon Park, Hamilton Pitch Report
Seddon Park has historically provided a balanced contest between bat and ball. The last ODI here saw a first-innings total of 255/9 against a chase that ended at 142 all out. Bowlers are expected to be in the game, and anything above 280-300 could be a strong total.
The pitch may help pacers in the early stages, but spinners might also get grip as the day goes on. The game's weather forecast indicates that there will be a combination of cloudy periods and sun all day.
NZ vs PAK Toss Prediction
The toss-winning captain will prefer to field first in the 2nd ODI.
NZ vs PAK Predicted Score Today
1st Innings: 250-260 runs
2nd Innings: 260-280 runs
NZ vs PAK Win Probability
NZ vs PAK (Source: CREX)
Fans shared their opinion on Crex App and backed Pakistan to win the second ODI against New Zealand.
OneCricket’s Prediction
Pakistan showed glimpses of promise in the opening game, with key players stepping up in both batting and bowling. However, their lack of depth remains a major concern against a well-balanced New Zealand side. The Black Caps, accustomed to home conditions, possess several match-winners in the team and are thus the favourites to win this game and clinch the series.