NZ Vs PAK Dream11 Prediction: 3 Top Captain Or Vice-Captain Choices For 1st ODI

Jatin

NZ Vs PAK Dream11 Prediction [Source: @BLACKCAPS, @Imshah120/x.com]NZ Vs PAK Dream11 Prediction [Source: @BLACKCAPS, @Imshah120/x.com]

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The ODI rivalry between New Zealand and Pakistan is back and the action kicks off with the first ODI. The high-octane clash will be played on Saturday, March 29 at the McLean Park in Napier.

After a thumping 4-1 T20I series win, the Kiwis will walk in with their chests out and confidence sky-high. They are playing at home and their ODI form has been red-hot lately. They reached the finals of the Champions Trophy, only to be pipped by India.

Meanwhile, Pakistan are coming off a rough patch in ODIs. Their Champions Trophy campaign was nothing to write home about and they have been in a bit of a transition phase. But their big guns are back. With Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan rejoining the side, the team has more balance and firepower.

So, if you're building your fantasy team for the big clash, picking the right captain and vice-captain could be the difference between topping your league or biting the dust.



3. Babar Azam

Why Will Babar Azam Be A Good Choice As The Captain Or Vice-captain In NZ vs PAK?

Babar Azam hasn’t quite been himself this year. Just 149 runs in 5 ODIs in 2025 at an average of 29.80 and a strike rate of 77.60 doesn’t scream “pick me.” But don’t write him off just yet.

Because when it comes to playing against New Zealand, Babar turns into a different beast. He has got 1009 runs in just 23 ODIs against them, averaging 48.04 with a strike rate close to 83. That includes 9 fifties and 2 hundreds which is solid proof that he enjoys playing against the Black Caps.

Add to that his absence from the T20I series. So, he is not only well-rested but also likely fired up to score some big runs. When Babar gets going, he doesn't just make runs, he piles them on. And when you're picking fantasycaptains, a solid base with the bat is half the battle won. That is why he is a top-notch choice for captain or vice-captain.

2. Will Young

Why Will Will Young Be A Good Choice As The Captain Or Vice-captain In NZ vs PAK?

If there is one guy who loves batting against Pakistan, it is Will Young. In just 8 ODIs against them, he has belted 356 runs at an average of 44.00 and a strike rate of 94.68.

In 2025, Young has kept things steady, scoring 299 runs in 11 ODIs at an average of 29.90 and a strike rate of 84.46. Nothing huge but enough to show he's in decent nick. Plus, he is got a knack for making the most of the powerplay. If he gets set early, he usually makes it count.

Given the match is in New Zealand’s backyard, and with Young’s record against Pakistan, he’s a dark horse captaincy or vice-captaincy option, one that could give you a massive edge in fantasy leagues.

1. Daryl Mitchell

Why Will Daryl Mitchell Be A Good Choice As The Captain Or Vice-captain In NZ vs PAK?

Daryl Mitchell is the kind of guy who always shows up when it matters. And when it comes to Pakistan, he has been a thorn in their side. In 11 ODIs vs Pakistan, he has slammed 546 runs at a stunning average of 49.63 and a strike rate of 92.85.

In 2025, he has been in solid form too: 327 runs in 10 games at an average of 36.33, with three fifties to his name. He brings stability to the middle order, rotates strike beautifully and has the gears to accelerate when needed.

Plus, he’s reliable. When you pick a fantasy captain, you want someone who won’t throw his wicket away and Mitchell fits that bill perfectly. With his current form, past record vs Pakistan, and home advantage, he is the safest and smartest pick for captain or vice-captain.