As Pakistan prepares to face New Zealand in the Tri-Series Final, the team must tackle significant challenges to secure victory. While the campaign included an impressive win against South Africa, the heavy defeat to New Zealand exposed vulnerabilities. Here are the five critical areas Pakistan must address:
1. Death Bowling: A Persistent Problem
Pakistan’s bowling attack, especially in the death overs, has been underwhelming. In their first match against New Zealand, they leaked 98 runs in the final six overs, with Glenn Phillips wreaking havoc.
Even during the win against South Africa, Pakistan’s pacers conceded a hefty 206 runs, raising questions about their execution under pressure.
To counter New Zealand’s power hitters, Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah need to sharpen their yorkers. Pakistan may also consider integrating spinners into the death overs strategy to disrupt New Zealand’s rhythm.
2. Fakhar Zaman’s Form Needs Support
Fakhar Zaman has been the backbone of Pakistan’s top order, with scores like 84 off 69 against New Zealand and strong starts against South Africa.
However, with Babar Azam struggling—failing to convert his starts—Pakistan faces a dilemma. Should Babar continue opening or shift to his preferred No. 3 position?
A strong powerplay is essential to pressure New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack, and Fakhar cannot carry the responsibility alone.
3. Middle-Order Stability: Rizwan and Salman Agha Lead the Way
Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Agha have been key to Pakistan’s middle-order success, with their 260-run partnership against South Africa standing out as a series highlight.
Their ability to rotate strike and find gaps will be critical against New Zealand’s disciplined bowlers. However, to avoid exposing the fragile lower order, the middle order must maintain composure and avoid collapses like those seen in the earlier loss.
4. Finding a Reliable Third Seamer
The absence of Haris Rauf has left a noticeable gap in Pakistan’s pace attack. The team must carefully choose between options like Hasan Ali and Mohammad Wasim Jr. to provide consistency in the middle overs.
Alternatively, Pakistan could lean on all-rounders such as Faheem Ashraf, who can contribute both with the ball and as a late-order batter. A well-balanced attack will be crucial to restricting New Zealand’s power-packed batting lineup.
5. Spin Strategy: Time to Rethink
New Zealand’s batters have been comfortable against Pakistan’s spinners, with Mitchell and Phillips dominating Salman Agha and Khushdil Shah in earlier matches.
To turn the tables, Pakistan could introduce Abrar Ahmed earlier or deploy Imad Wasim in tandem with seamers to break partnerships. A proactive spin strategy, rather than reactive measures, will be vital to keeping New Zealand’s aggressive approach in check.
Final Thoughts
Pakistan’s road to victory in the Tri-Series Final lies in fixing their death bowling woes, supporting Fakhar Zaman’s starts, ensuring middle-order stability, and managing their pace and spin attacks strategically.
While the team has shown flashes of brilliance, a complete, disciplined performance will be necessary to topple a strong New Zealand side and claim the title ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
