New Zealand vs Pakistan 2025 Match Preview, 1st ODI

The T20Is have come to an end, and on Friday, March 29, the three-match ODI series between New Zealand and Pakistan will commence. While the T20I series introduced fans to some new faces, several star players will be returning to the squad for the 50-over format.

The New Zealand side will once again be led by all-rounder Michael Bracewell, who will be looking to continue his excellent form as a leader in the ODI series as well. The likes of Will Young and Henry Nicholls will also be back in action for the series. The Blackcaps will aim to have another incredible home series heading into this game.

As for Pakistan, the team will also see the return of star players in the form of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan. The last time the two played in an ODI match was in the Champions Trophy. Rizwan will also be back in a leadership role for the series and will be eager to recover from the disastrous ICC event that took place on their home ground.

Match Details 

Pitch Report 

Although McLean Park has traditionally been a surface where batters enjoy their time at the crease, there is also some assistance for the pacers. The pitch tends to slow down as the game progresses, making it challenging for both teams to decide whether to bat or bowl first in the upcoming game.

Head-to-Head record 

NZ vs PAK Predicted Playing 11 

New Zealand: 

Will Young, Nick Kelly, Henry Nicholls, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Michael Bracewell (c), Mitchell Hay (wk), Nathan Smith, Jacob Duffy, William O’Rourke, Ben Sears. 

Pakistan: 

Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan (c/wk), Salman Agha, Khushdil Shah, Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Wasim Jr., Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed.