New Zealand vs Pakistan 1st ODI 2025: Match Preview, Head-to-Head & Playing 11
The much-anticipated New Zealand vs Pakistan 1st ODI 2025 is set to kick off on March 29 at McLean Park, Napier. With both teams bringing back their star players after the T20I series, this opening match will be crucial for setting the tone in the three-match series.
Pakistan, led by Mohammad Rizwan, will be looking to redeem themselves after a disappointing ICC event. Meanwhile, New Zealand, captained by Michael Bracewell, will aim to dominate at home.
Match Details
| Match | New Zealand vs Pakistan, 1st ODI 2025 |
|---|---|
| Venue | McLean Park, Napier |
| Date & Time | Saturday, March 29, 3:30 AM (IST) |
| Live Streaming | Sony Sports Network & FanCode |
Head-to-Head Record: New Zealand vs Pakistan in ODIs
| Matches Played | Won by New Zealand | Won by Pakistan | Tied | No Result |
| 119 | 54 | 61 | 1 | 3 |
- First-ever ODI: February 11, 1973
- Most recent ODI: February 19, 2025
Pakistan holds a slight edge in the overall ODI record, but New Zealand’s home advantage makes this an exciting contest.
Pitch Report: McLean Park, Napier
McLean Park is known for being a batting-friendly surface, with good bounce and carry. However, the pacers can find early movement, and the pitch slows down later in the game, making it tricky for chasing teams. Captains may prefer to bat first to take advantage of the conditions.
- Average 1st Innings Score: 270-290
- Average 2nd Innings Score: 240-260
- Pacers vs Spinners: Pacers dominate early, but spinners come into play in middle overs.
Predicted Playing 11: New Zealand vs Pakistan 1st ODI 2025
Pakistan Squad
| Position | Player |
| Opener | Abdullah Shafique |
| Opener | Imam-ul-Haq |
| One Down | Babar Azam |
| Middle Order | Mohammad Rizwan (c/wk) |
| All-rounder | Salman Agha |
| Finisher | Khushdil Shah |
| Batting All-rounder | Tayyab Tahir |
| Bowling All-rounder | Faheem Ashraf |
| Pacer | Mohammad Wasim Jr. |
| Pacer | Naseem Shah |
| Spinner | Abrar Ahmed |
New Zealand Squad
| Position | Player |
| Opener | Will Young |
| Opener | Nick Kelly |
| One Down | Henry Nicholls |
| Middle Order | Mark Chapman |
| All-rounder | Daryl Mitchell |
| Captain/All-rounder | Michael Bracewell (c) |
| Wicketkeeper | Mitchell Hay (wk) |
| Bowling All-rounder | Nathan Smith |
| Pacer | Jacob Duffy |
| Pacer | William O’Rourke |
| Pacer | Ben Sears |
Key Players to Watch
Pakistan
- Babar Azam – Pakistan’s batting mainstay, known for his consistency in ODIs.
- Mohammad Rizwan – Captain and wicketkeeper, crucial in both leadership and middle-order stability.
- Naseem Shah – Pakistan’s pace spearhead, expected to make an impact with the new ball.
New Zealand
- Michael Bracewell – A dynamic all-rounder and leader for New Zealand.
- Daryl Mitchell – A dependable middle-order batsman who can accelerate when needed.
- Jacob Duffy – A rising fast bowler who could trouble Pakistan’s top order.
Final Thoughts
The New Zealand vs Pakistan 1st ODI 2025 promises an exciting contest, with both teams boasting a mix of experienced players and young talent. Pakistan will look to improve their record in New Zealand, while the Blackcaps aim to continue their home dominance.
Who will take the lead in the series? Stay tuned to Khelo Pakistan for live updates and match insights!
