PAK vs NZ, 1st Test: Preview, Prediction and Fantasy Tips

Kane Williamson and Tom Latham

Pakistan will lock horns against New Zealand in the first fixture of the two-match Test series at National Stadium, Karachi. 

The hosts, Pakistan sustained a 0-3 defeat to England earlier this month and will look for a fighting comeback.  The best batter for the team was Babar Azam, while youngster Abrar Ahmed left a big impact with his wicket-taking abilities.

Pakistan got a major boost ahead of the series, with pacers Hasan Ali and Naseem Shah making a comeback after recovering from injury. Further, Sajid Khan, who was added to the squad is likely to mark his presence in XI. 

On the other hand, New Zealand's last Test assignment was against England, wherein they also 0-3.  The left-arm pacer Trent Boult made himself unavailable for the series, while Kyle Jamieson is still recovering from injury. 

Two spinners in Ajaz Patel and Michael Bracewell are likely to be part of the XI, while Ish Sodhi might have to warm the bench in the 1st Test. 

Match Details

Date and Time: December 26, 10:30 AM IST
Venue: National Stadium, Karachi 
Live Streaming: Sony Sports Network, Sony LIV App

Pitch Report: The last Test match of the Pakistan-England was played at this venue. Although the surface assisted the batters to post big scores, the spinners were able to find optimum purchase from the surface.  The scores of above 350 will be a top ceiling for both teams. 

Playing/ Predicted XIs

New Zealand: Tom Latham, Will Young, Kane Williamson (c), Devon Conway, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell (wk), Michael Bracewell, Tim Southee, Ajaz Patel, Neil Wagner, Matt Henry

Pakistan: Abdullah Shafique, Shan Masood, Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam (c), Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Agha Salman, Abrar Ahmed, Naseem Shah, Hasan Ali, Sajid Khan

Cricket Exchange Fantasy Tips

Wicket-keepers: Mohammad Rizwan
Batters: Kane Williamson, Tom Latham, Babar Azam, Abdullah Shafique
All-Rounders: Michael Bracewell, Daryl Mitchell
Bowlers: Tim Southee, Ajaz Patel, Abrar Ahmed, Naseem Shah

Captain: Babar Azam
Vice-Captain: Kane Williamson 

Prediction

Although both teams are coming off after a series loss to England, Pakistan are better positioned in this match-up due to better ability to play against spin. 

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