United Arab Emirates vs New Zealand – 1st International T20 Preview & Prediction

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THE FACTS

When is United Arab Emirates vs New Zealand taking place? Thursday, August 17th, 2023 – 15:00 (UK)

Where is United Arab Emirates vs New Zealand taking place? Dubai Sports City Stadium, Dubai

What channel is United Arab Emirates vs New Zealand on? United Arab Emirates vs New Zealand will not be televised live in the UK, but will be televised live on Sky Sports in New Zealand and Star Sports Network in India

Where can I stream United Arab Emirates vs New Zealand? United Arab Emirates vs New Zealand cannot be streamed in the UK, but can be streamed live on Fancode in the subcontinent

THE LOWDOWN

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

United Arab Emirates welcomes New Zealand to Dubai in this three match T20i series which sees Mohammad Waseem captain the hosts for the first time in this form of cricket after having led the side in the ODI format. Batter Asif Khan’s excellent form in 50-over cricket has also seen him rewarded with a place in the T20i squad. However, they head into the series as huge underdogs and will have to be at their very best to compete with the Kiwis.

NEW ZEALAND

Unsurprisingly, New Zealand are using this series as an opportunity to blood new players into the Black Caps’ fold such as Adithya Ashok and Dean Foxcroft. However, they still boast proven international quality in their squad such as fast bowler Kyle Jamieson, Will Young and captain Tim Southee. Such experience will serve the tourists well across this series and they’ll be hoping to put a run of wins together ahead of their white ball tour of England next month.

THE PREDICTION

Even with such a large number of players missing, New Zealand contain a more than adequate level of strength among their squad and will be expected to dominate the vast majority of this contest. Although it may take them time to adjust to their surroundings in Dubai, over the course of a full T20i, the quality of the Black Caps compared to their opponents should tell, so back New Zealand to begin the series with victory in this one.

TIP: NEW ZEALAND TO WIN