MOUNT MAUNGANUI, New Zealand -- In a rain-affected third one-day international (ODI) against New Zealand, Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan won a delayed toss and opted to bowl first at Bay Oval on Saturday, April 5, 2025. The match, reduced to 42 overs per side due to heavy rain overnight, saw Rizwan continuing his streak of winning tosses, having done so in all three matches of the series.
The day started bright and sunny, but damp patches around the pitch delayed the start of play as ground staff worked diligently to dry the affected areas. Rizwan's decision to bowl first reflects Pakistan's strategy throughout this series, where they have faced a challenging New Zealand side that has already clinched the series with an unassailable 2-0 lead.
New Zealand had previously secured victories in the first two ODIs, winning by 73 runs and 84 runs respectively. In the second ODI, Pakistan's batting lineup faltered early, collapsing to 9-3 as key players Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, and Babar Azam were dismissed cheaply. Faheem Ashraf's resilient 73 was not enough, and Pakistan was bowled out for 208 in just 41.2 overs.
In response to the ongoing challenges, Pakistan made a notable change to their lineup for this match. Haris Rauf, who suffered a concussion after being struck on the head during the second ODI, was replaced by Naseem Shah. Naseem had previously batted in place of Rauf in the second ODI, impressively scoring a half-century, and was expected to bring some much-needed firepower to the bowling attack today.
The Blackcaps' lineup for the match included Nick Kelly, Rhys Mariu, Henry Nicholls, Daryl Mitchell, Tim Seifert, Michael Bracewell (captain), Muhammad Abbas, Mitchell Hay, Jacob Duffy, Ben Sears, and Will O’Rourke. Meanwhile, Pakistan's team featured Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan (captain), Salman Ali Agha, Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Naseem Shah, Sufyan Muqeem, and Akif Javed.
As the match progresses, the focus remains on whether Pakistan can turn their fortunes around after struggling in the previous games. The team will look to their captain Rizwan and the returning Naseem Shah to inspire a comeback against a formidable New Zealand side that has dominated the series thus far.
The weather conditions at Bay Oval are crucial, as any further rain could impact the match's outcome. Fans are eagerly watching to see if Pakistan can leverage their bowling strength to restrict New Zealand and set up a competitive chase later in the game. With the series already decided, this match serves as an opportunity for Pakistan to salvage pride and gain momentum heading into future competitions.
Both teams are under pressure, with New Zealand aiming to maintain their winning streak and Pakistan desperate to avoid a whitewash. As play finally gets underway, all eyes will be on the bowlers, especially Naseem Shah, who has the potential to make a significant impact.
