PAK vs NZ, 2nd Test: Preview, Prediction and Fantasy Tips

Sodhi picked up a 5-wicket haul in 1st Test [Source: Associated Press]

Pakistan will be up against New Zealand in the final fixture of the two-match Test series at National Stadium, Karachi.

The first game witnessed Pakistan posting 438 on the board, with the top contribution from Babar Azam (161). In reply, Kane Williamson slammed an unbeaten 200 to help the visitors in declaring on 612 and taking a lead of 174 runs. 

In the second innings, the hosts declared on 311/8, and set up a target of 138 for the Kiwi team. Then, the bad light resulted in a match being drawn, before New Zealand could score 61 in less than eight overs. 

Pakistan is likely to bring experienced Hasan Ali in place of Mir Hamza in this game. On the other hand, New Zealand are expected to come into this game with the same combination. It will be interesting to see which team takes the series. 

Match Details

Date and Time: January 2, 10:30 AM IST
Venue: National Stadium, Karachi
Live Streaming: Sony Sports Network, Sony LIV App

Pitch Report: The pitch in the last two Test matches at this venue has assisted the batters, while not offering enough for the bowlers. Both teams would look to score runs above 400 to remain in the hunt for winning the match. Furthermore, the spinners will remain in a sweet spot to take wickets. 

Playing/ Predicted XIs

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

Pakistan: Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Shan Masood, Babar Azam (c), Saud Shakeel, Sarfaraz Ahmed (wk), Agha Salman, Nauman Ali, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Abrar Ahmed, Mir Hamza/ Hasan Ali

Cricket Exchange Fantasy Tips

Wicket-keepers: Sarfaraz Ahmed
Batters: Kane Williamson, Tom Latham, Babar Azam, Devon Conway
All-Rounders: Michael Bracewell, Agha Salman
Bowlers: Ajaz Patel, Abrar Ahmed, Nauman Ali, Ish Sodhi

Captain: Kane Williamson
Vice-Captain: Babar Azam 

Prediction

New Zealand are better positioned as compared to hosts in this fixture. The combination of quality batters and fine performance from spinners are expected to help New Zealand to edge out Pakistan. 

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