Pakistan-New Zealand clash: A preview for the Champions Trophy

English , Snippets , Sports - کھیل اور کھلاڑی , / Friday, February 7th, 2025

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RKI Network
Lahore – The upcoming tri-nation series clash between Pakistan and New Zealand is being seen as a crucial warm-up for both teams ahead of the Champions Trophy. The two teams will meet on Saturday, with captains Mohammad Rizwan and Mitchell Santner both emphasizing the importance of the match as a dress rehearsal for the tournament.
The tri-nation series, which also includes South Africa, concludes on February 14, just days before the Champions Trophy kicks off. Rizwan believes the series provides the perfect preparation for the much-anticipated tournament. “We have the best choice of players, and this series is vital for us to build momentum,” Rizwan told reporters. Under Rizwan’s leadership since November, Pakistan has regained form, including their first series win in Australia in over 20 years and a home whitewash of South Africa in December.
For New Zealand, Santner sees the match as key preparation for their opening Champions Trophy game in Karachi. “The conditions here will be similar to what we’ll face in Karachi,” Santner said. The Black Caps are bolstered by experienced pacers Tim Southee and Trent Boult, who have a combined 432 ODI wickets, as well as a promising younger fast-bowling attack.
With both teams eyeing the Champions Trophy, this encounter is set to be a thrilling preview of the competition that begins on February 19 in Pakistan, culminating on March 9.