Pakistan have already won the series [Twitter]
In what promises to be an enthralling encounter, Pakistan and New Zealand will lock horns in the third T20I of the five-match series at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Monday, April 17. After securing comprehensive victories in the first two games, Pakistan will be looking to continue their dominant form and clinch the series. On the other hand, New Zealand will be hoping to bounce back and reduce the deficit to 2-1.
Team Preview
Pakistan
The hosts have been in sublime form in the series so far, with their bowlers and batters delivering impressive performances. Haris Rauf was the star of the first game with a brilliant four-wicket haul, while Babar Azam took centre stage in the second match with a sensational century. Pakistan will be hoping for more of the same from their players as they look to seal the series in front of their home crowd.
New Zealand
New Zealand, on the other hand, have struggled to cope with the Pakistan bowling attack, with only Mark Chapman managing to put up a fight in the second game. The tourists will be hoping for a better batting performance and a stronger showing from their bowlers if they are to make a comeback in the series.
Match Details
Date & Time: April 17, 9:30 PM IST
Venue: Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
Live Streaming and Broadcast: SonyLIV and Sony Sports Network
Pitch Report
The Gaddafi Stadium pitch has been a crucial factor in the first two games, with the surface favouring the batters in the first innings before becoming increasingly challenging for scoring in the latter stages of the game. The team winning the toss will likely look to bat first and defend their total, a tactic that has worked well in the previous games.
Probable Playing XI
Pakistan: Babar Azam (c), Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, Iftikhar Ahmed, Shadab Khan, Faheem Ashraf, Imad Wasim, Haris Hauf, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Zaman Khan
New Zealand: Tom Latham (c and wk), Chad Bowes, Will Young, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, Rachin Ravindra, Cole McConchie, Henry Shipley,Matt Henry, Ben Lister
Cricket Exchange Fantasy Tips
Wicket-Keepers: Mohammad Rizwan, Tom Latham
Batters: Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Mark Chapman,
All-Rounders: Shadab Khan, Imad Wasim, Daryl Mitchell
Bowlers: Haris Rauf, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Matt Henry,
Captain: Mohammad Rizwan
Vice Captain: Mark Chapman
Prediction
Pakistan are clear favourites to win the game based on current form and familiarity with the conditions.