Pakistan, New Zealand first ODI today
Pakistan will take on New Zealand in the first ODI of the two-match series today in Wellington.
WELLINGTON (Agencies) - Pakistan and New Zealand gear up for a two-match One-day International series which start today (Saturday) in Wellington and seen as the ideal preparation for the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup for both sides.
Pakistan did not have a good time in 2014 as they won only six out of their 16 ODI games, including two home series defeats to Australia and New Zealand. They also lost both their warm-up games in the build-up to this series.
As a result of their poor performances, the visitors have a lot to ponder over their combination before the World Cup.
The bans imposed by the ICC on Mohammad Hafeez and Saeed Ajmal from bowling has hit them badly, but Haris Sohail s performance with the ball in the five-match series against New Zealand in December 2014 has come at the right time for Pakistan, who were desperately in need of a fifth bowler.
Shahid Afridi took everyone by surprise with his sensible approach in the New Zealand series and the team would look up to him to stand up in pressure situations.
The bowling attack will be spearheaded by Mohammad Irfan, whose height and the ability to generate extra bounce could come in handy at Eden Park. Allrounder Bilawal Bhatti, who last played an ODI in February 2014, will be closely monitored as there are still a few places up for grabs in the playing XI.
The Black Caps have had a good time in the ODI format and are in good shape leading up to the World Cup. Apart from being fresh from their 4-2 series win over Sri Lanka, the fact that they beat Pakistan 3-2 recently in the UAE will also give them a lot of confidence going into the first ODI.
Captain Brendon McCullum will return after being rested for the final ODI against Sri Lanka. Kane Williamson has looked in solid touch and was the highest run-getter for the hosts in the seven-match series.
The returning Grant Elliott too impressed everyone and scored a hundred, while Luke Ronchi is getting better with every game. Mitchell McClenaghan and Corey Anderson did well with the ball against Sri Lanka and with Adam Milne returning from injury, the bowling department looks in great shape.
