Wellington: After suffering a 3-1 series defeat in the ongoing T20 International series against New Zealand, the Pakistan team management is considering changes for the final match in Wellington.
The performances of senior players like Shaheen Afridi and Shadab Khan have raised concerns, prompting discussions about potential adjustments. Shadab Khan, who made a sudden comeback and was appointed as vice-captain, has struggled throughout the series, scoring only 30 runs in four matches and taking just one wicket while conceding 110 runs in 11 overs.
Similarly, Shaheen Afridi’s form has been worrying, as he has bowled 13 overs in four matches, conceding 133 runs and taking only two wickets at an average of 66.50. On the other hand, Haris Rauf has been Pakistan’s standout bowler, claiming 8 wickets at an average of 9.50.
In the batting department, Agha Salman (116 runs) and Hassan Nawaz (106 runs) have been Pakistan’s top scorers in the series. However, players like Umair Bin Yousuf, Sufiyan Muqeem, and Usman Khan have not been given an opportunity to play yet.
Former captain Shahid Afridi has suggested resting Shaheen Afridi and Shadab Khan for the final match. In a post on social media platform X, he recommended giving bench players a chance, as Pakistan has already lost the series.
The Pakistan squad arrived in Wellington on Monday from Mount Maunganui and will begin preparations with a practice session on Tuesday. The team management is under pressure after Pakistan’s historic 115-run defeat in the fourth T20I, which marked their biggest loss and New Zealand’s biggest victory in T20Is.
Captain Agha Salman acknowledged the team’s struggles, stating, “The ball was swinging more in the second innings. We will try to perform better in the final match.”
The final T20 match between Pakistan and New Zealand will be played tomorrow in Wellington’s Sky Stadium.
