PAK vs NZ, 4th ODI | Preview, Pitch Report, Predicted Playing XIs, Fantasy Tips & Prediction

Pakistan lead the series 3-0 [AP Photos]

In a highly anticipated clash, Pakistan and New Zealand are set to lock horns in the fourth match of their five-match ODI series at the prestigious National Stadium in Karachi on May 5, 2023. With the home side already clinching the series after comprehensively winning the first three games, the Kiwis will be eager to avoid a whitewash and play for their pride.

Team Preview

Pakistan

After failing to defend targets in the initial two encounters, the Black Caps were presented with the opportunity to chase a challenging total in the third ODI, as Pakistan put on a commendable display of batting, posting a competitive score of 287/6 in their allotted 50 overs.

Imam-ul-Haq and Babar Azam led the way for the hosts, both registering crucial half-centuries to help their team set a daunting target for the visitors. Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Wasim Jr., Naseem Shah were the pick of the bowlers for Pakistan, each picking up two wickets to help their team win the series.

New Zealand

Despite a resilient effort by Tom Blundell and Tom Latham, who scored 65 and 45 runs respectively, New Zealand struggled to maintain their momentum as they kept losing wickets at regular intervals.

Cole McConchie provided some resistance with an unbeaten knock of 64, but ultimately it was not enough as they fell short of the target, getting bowled out for 261 in the last over, thus conceding the game by a margin of 26 runs.

Pakistan have been in sensational form, completely outclassing the opposition in all departments of the game, and they will be looking to continue their winning streak in the fourth ODI. Meanwhile, New Zealand will be hoping to bounce back and salvage some pride by registering a victory in the upcoming encounter.

Match Details

Date & Time: May 5, 4:00 PM IST

Venue: National Stadium, Karachi

Live Streaming and Broadcast: SonyLIV and Sony Sports Network

Pitch Report

The National Stadium in Karachi is renowned for its balanced track, providing something for both the pacers and spinners. The surface is expected to offer lateral movement to the quicks, while batsmen will need to display patience and skill to score runs. As the pitch wears off, spinners will come into play, extracting significant turn and bounce from the surface. The toss will be crucial, and the team winning it will likely elect to bat first to take advantage of the favorable conditions.

Probable Playing XI

Pakistan: Imam-ul-Haq, Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam (c), Abdullah Shafique, Mohammed Rizwan (wk), Agha Salman, Shadab Khan, Mohammed Nawaz, Haris Rauf, Ihsanullah, Naseem Shah

New Zealand: Tom Blundell wk), Will Young, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (c), Mark Chapman, Henry Nicholls, Colin McConchie, Adam Milne, Henry Shipley Ish Sodhi, Matt Henry

Cricket Exchange Fantasy Tips

Wicket-Keepers: Mohammad Rizwan, Tom Latham

Batters: Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Will Young

All-Rounders: Shadab Khan, Daryl Mitchell, Colin McConchie

Bowlers: Naseem Shah, Adam Milne, Matt Henry

Captain: Fakhar Zaman

Vice Captain: Daryl Mitchell

Prediction

Pakistan are clear favourites to win the game based on their form and familiarity with the conditions.

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