In a highly anticipated clash, Pakistan and New Zealand kicked off their three-match ODI series on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at McLean Park in Napier. The opening game comes on the heels of a disappointing T20I series for Pakistan, where they were outclassed by New Zealand, losing 4-1. As the teams took to the field, the absence of Imam-ul-Haq loomed large for Pakistan. The talented opener was ruled out due to a soft tissue injury to his right big toe, sustained during a practice session just a day before the match. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed his unavailability, stating, "Imam-ul-Haq will not be available for the first ODI against New Zealand due to a soft tissue injury to his right big toe sustained during yesterday’s practice session. He is under medical management, and further updates will be provided in due course." This injury is a significant blow for Pakistan, especially considering Imam's recent return to the national setup during the Champions Trophy 2025, where he replaced an injured Fakhar Zaman.
Pakistan's struggles in the T20I series have raised concerns about their current form. Former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Kamran Akmal didn't hold back his criticism, labeling the team's performance as "shameful". In a candid discussion on his YouTube channel, he expressed his disappointment, saying, "Our team looked like a local team. It was a shameful performance. Our performance is zero, and nobody has realised it." Akmal pointed out the stark contrast between Pakistan and cricket powerhouse India, emphasizing that India's success stems from selecting players based on merit rather than favoritism. He remarked, "Look at the ongoing IPL. If you play the youngsters playing there against this Pakistan team, they will win the series. India wins all the matches because they make the team on merit, not like us."
Pakistan's recent performances have been troubling, especially following their early exit from the Champions Trophy, a tournament they hosted for the first time since the 1996 Cricket World Cup. Their elimination generated significant buzz, particularly after they had also been ousted in the group stages of both the 2024 T20 World Cup and the 2023 ODI World Cup. In stark contrast, India advanced to the finals of both tournaments, winning the T20 World Cup for the second time. Following the Champions Trophy setback, Pakistan made several changes to their squad; notably, Salman Agha replaced Mohammad Rizwan as captain in the T20 format, and Babar Azam was dropped from the T20 team. However, these changes appear to have had little to no impact as the team continues to struggle.
As the ODI series unfolds, both teams have a rich history in One Day Internationals. In their 119 encounters, Pakistan has emerged victorious in 61 matches, while New Zealand has claimed 54 wins. Three matches ended without a result, and one match was tied, showcasing the competitive nature of this rivalry.
For the opening match, Pakistan's playing XI features Abdullah Shafique, Usman Khan, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan (who will serve as wicketkeeper and captain), Salman Agha, Tayyab Tahir, Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Ali, and Akif Javed. Meanwhile, New Zealand's lineup includes Nick Kelly, Will Young, Henry Nicholls, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Michael Bracewell (captain), Muhammad Abbas, Mitchell Hay (wicketkeeper), Nathan Smith, Jacob Duffy, and William O’Rourke.
As the match progresses, the pressure is on both teams to deliver strong performances. For Pakistan, the focus will be on bouncing back from their T20I woes and making a statement in the ODI format. The absence of Imam-ul-Haq adds an additional challenge, but the team will look to their experienced players like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan to lead the charge.
New Zealand, on the other hand, will be eager to continue their dominance over Pakistan, having recently secured a convincing series victory in the T20 format. With home advantage and a strong lineup, they aim to capitalize on Pakistan's recent struggles and set the tone for the ODI series.
As fans tune in, the excitement is palpable. Will Pakistan manage to turn their fortunes around, or will New Zealand continue their winning streak? The stage is set for an intriguing battle in Napier, and cricket enthusiasts will be eagerly watching how this series unfolds.
