In-form Pakistan will pose huge challenge to New Zealand
- Pakistan have dominated the rivalry in T20 cricket with a scoreline of 17-10.
- Pakistan have had three back to back victories and are a dangerous side when they have the momentum.
New Zealand and Pakistan are set to collide in the first semi-final of the men’s T20 World Cup, taking place at Sydney Cricket Ground on Wednesday. New Zealand topped their group with three wins and a significantly superior net run-rate to England. They were dominant against Australia, Sri Lanka and Ireland. New Zealand have odds of 1.90 to win this match on Wednesday.
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Pakistan had to rely on other results after losing their first two games but luck did favour them in the end. They defeated Netherlands, South Africa and Bangladesh to reach the semifinals. Pakistan have the exact same odds of winning this clash as New Zealand at 1.90.
How’s the Pitch?
Sydney Cricket Ground has been the highest-scoring venue while batting first in this tournament. Barring one match, all the matches have been won by the team batting first and by heavy margins. As for the weather, there’s a 55% chance of rain on Wednesday morning but is expected to get cleared by the evening.
Our pick: There’s not much to separate the two sides but Pakistan do have a slight edge with their bowling attack. Back Pakistan at 1.90 to win the match!
Pakistan have arguably the best bowling attack in the competition and Shaheen Afridi’s return to form is a big boost. Their middle order has also been in good form and has saved them in recent games. New Zealand’s bowling attack has done an outstanding job in the tournament but the batting unit remains vulnerable despite Glenn Phillips’ form and Kane Williamson’s return among runs.
Keep an eye on..
Shadab Khan has been magnificent for Pakistan in the ongoing world cup with his all-round skill set. He has snared 10 wickets in five group matches at 6.22 rpo while also hammering 52 off 22 against South Africa.
Tim Southee could be very useful at a venue like Sydney with his cutters and change of pace. The right arm seamer has bagged 7 scalps in four games at an economy of just 6.35, with best figures of 3 for 6.
