It’s a critical juncture for Pakistan’s cricket team as they face a do-or-die situation in their ongoing New Zealand tour. With the third T20I scheduled for January 17 at the University Oval in Dunedin, Pakistan have made some significant changes to their squad in a bid to salvage their chances in the five-match series. Under the new captaincy of Shaheen Afridi, the team has had a difficult start, with losses in the first two matches putting immense pressure on the upcoming game.
Amid these challenging times, the team has decided to recall spin-bowling all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz in place of the underperforming Usama Mir, hoping to exploit the slower conditions of the Dunedin ground to their advantage. Nawaz’s inclusion could be a game-changer for Pakistan, who need to capitalize on every possible edge to overthrow the confident Kiwi side.
In another major move, Abbas Afridi has been ruled out of the upcoming clash due to discomfort from a low-grade abdominal wall muscle strain. Although his injury isn’t severe, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed that he is under observation and will be managed symptomatically. Mohammad Wasim Junior has been called up as his replacement.
Adding to the changes, Zaman Khan is set to replace Aamer Jamal, a revelation during the Test series in Australia. This reshuffling brings a mix of experience and young blood into the Pakistani lineup, with the team management showcasing its intent to strike a balance and find the right formula for success.
Despite the shakeup, Iftikhar Ahmed and Azam Khan have managed to retain their spots in the playing XI. The team’s faith in them remains unshaken, even after their disappointing performances in the second T20I. Both players had come out to bat when Pakistan seemed poised for a successful chase, requiring 98 runs from 62 deliveries—a scenario that, in today’s batting-friendly environment, leans towards the achievable.
Fakhar Zaman’s return to form was a positive sign, as his rapid half-century had set the stage for a potential victory. However, the subsequent collapse, with Iftikhar and Azam failing to keep the momentum going and departing within 17 deliveries of each other, spelt doom for Pakistan in the second T20I. The team ended up being bowled out for 173 in the final over of the innings, a result they’ll be eager to improve upon in the pivotal third match.
With their backs against the wall, Pakistan’s retooled squad, filled with both retained players and new inclusions, will need to bring their A-game to the fore. The third T20I is more than a match—it’s a test of resilience, strategy, and the ability to adapt under pressure. Staying alive in the series is the goal, but to achieve it, every player must rise to the occasion and deliver a team performance that can overpower the formidable New Zealand side on their home turf.
Pakistan’s playing XI for the 3rd T20I showcases a combination of experience and up-and-coming talent: Mohammad Rizwan (VC), Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Iftikhar Ahmed, Azam Khan (WK), Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Haris Rauf, and Zaman Khan. With eyes set on victory, the team stands ready to battle it out and keep their series hopes alive against the Kiwis in Dunedin.
