New Zealand vs Pakistan Preview: Team News & Prediction | 1st T20 International

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On the back of finishing runners-up in the ICC Champions Trophy, New Zealand take on the Pakistan side they defeated in the opening match of that tournament.

Date/Time: Saturday March 15th 2025: USA PT – 6:15pm / USA ET – 9:15pm / UK – 9:00am / Sunday March 16th 2025: UK – 1:15am

Venue: Hagley Oval, Christchurch, New Zealand

Weather: Hot conditions with bright sunshine throughout and temperatures in the mid-twenties.

How to watch on TV: UK – TNT Sports / US – Willow TV 

How to watch online: UK – discovery+ / US – Willow TV

New Zealand Betting Analysis

As the Pakistan batters look to attack, this could work in the favour of bowler Ish Sodhi. An extremely wily spinner, Sodhi may be set to benefit even if he does end up getting hit for a few boundaries. Errors are more likely as Pakistan bat aggressively, which gives Sodhi a better chance of taking wickets. Back him to record over 1.5 scalps here via the ‘Bowler Total Match Wickets’ market.

Pakistan Betting Analysis

Pakistan have a number of bowlers on their side capable of a high volume of wickets when taking into account the pace they are capable of generating. One such player is Haris Rauf, whose accuracy combined with his speed should see him prove successful here. Backing Rauf to finish this game as Pakistan’s top bowler is a play worth backing.

New Zealand vs Pakistan Expert Prediction

Whilst this represents a change in format, New Zealand can call upon the depth within their player pool to put together a strong squad for this encounter. Pakistan have struggled in all formats across the past few months and it would be no surprise to see the Black Caps extend their misery for the time being, so back a home victory in this first T20i.

New Zealand vs Pakistan Tip: New Zealand to win