The Tri-Nation Series 2025 has officially begun, with the opening match between Pakistan and New Zealand setting the stage for an exciting tournament. New Zealand’s newly appointed captain, Mitchell Santner, won the toss and decided to bat first at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, which is hosting its first match since extensive renovations.
This encounter marks the first meeting between the two teams since their thrilling ICC World Cup 2023 match, where New Zealand scored over 400 runs and Pakistan miraculously chased it down, aided by rain delays.
Pakistan, led by Mohammad Rizwan, boasts a solid lineup with notable players. Fakhar Zaman returns to open the innings alongside Babar Azam, after an injury to Saim Ayub forced the change. Despite some controversy, Faheem Ashraf, a player selected for the Champions Trophy, has not found a place in the XI, while Khushdil Shah makes his return to international cricket. Kamran Ghulam, Tayyab Tahir, and Salman Agha form the middle order.
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The bowling department remains strong, with Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf leading the pace attack. Abrar Ahmed, Pakistan’s promising spin option, will look to make an impact in the middle overs.
Pakistan XI:
Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Tayyab Tahir, Mohammad Rizwan (c) (wk), Khushdil Shah, Shaheen Afridi, Salman Ali Agha (vc), Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed
New Zealand, under Mitchell Santner’s captaincy, has a powerful batting lineup. Openers Will Young and Rachin Ravindra are expected to start strong, while Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, and Tom Latham will anchor the middle overs. Glenn Phillips and Michael Bracewell add depth with their all-round skills.
Despite the absence of Lockie Ferguson, New Zealand’s bowling attack remains formidable, with Ben Sears, Matt Henry, and Will O’Rourke leading the charge in the early and middle overs, while Santner will spearhead the spin attack.
New Zealand XI:
Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Glenn Phillips, Tom Latham (wk), Daryl Mitchell, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c), Will O’Rourke, Ben Sears, Matt Henry
As the Tri-Nation Series 2025 kicks off, both Pakistan and New Zealand are eager to make an early statement and set the tone for the rest of the competition.
