It is always good challenge playing against Pakistan, specifically in white ball cricket: Devon Conway

New Zealand and Pakistan are set to square off in what promises to be an exciting five-match T20I series. The first T20I is scheduled to be played at Eden Park in Auckland on Friday, January 12.

After being rested for the T20I series against Bangladesh, wicketkeeper-batter Devon Conway expressed his excitement as he is set to feature in the games against Pakistan. The southpaw is eager to play in different cities, in front of the home fans, during the campaign.

"It is always exciting, you know, the opening game at Eden Park, it is very exciting. We generally get a good crowd there as well and the atmosphere is electric at Eden Park. It is a great opportunity for us to travel up and down the country, play at different venues, and play in front of our home fans," Conway was quoted as saying by India Today ahead of the first T20I.

Conway mentioned that he had played a lot of cricket against Pakistan and appreciated the quality of the Asian side. He also said that it is always a good challenge playing against Pakistan, especially in the white-ball circuit.

"So, we are looking forward to it. I have played a lot of cricket against Pakistan, especially white ball cricket. They are very skillful unit with the bat and ball, they have got some quality fast bowling and some quality batters upfront so for us. We have got a good idea as to how they approach things. You know, it is always a good challenge playing against Pakistan, specifically in white ball cricket," Conway said.

Shaheen Afridi set to start era as Pakistan's T20 captain

Pakistan announced Shaheen Afridi as their T20 skipper after Babar Azam relinquished captaincy from all formats last year. The ace pacer is set to embark on his first assignment as Pakistan captain. Meanwhile, Mohammad Rizwan has been named as his deputy.

Pakistan recently suffered a 0-3 whitewash in a three-match Test series in Australia. The Kiwis, on the other hand, drew a T20I series 1-1 versus Bangladesh at home. With the T20 World Cup 2024 on the horizon, this upcoming series between New Zealand and Pakistan is set to provide a fine rehearsal stage for both teams.