We preview the fifth and final ODI between New Zealand and Pakistan set to take place at the Basin Reserve on Friday 19 January.
With the series already in the bag and an incredible 11 wins in a row secured on home soil, New Zealand is gunning for their 12th straight victory – and a historic first-ever 5-0 clean sweep against Pakistan.
It’s been almost a decade since Pakistan faced a whitewash in a five-match ODI series, but this week they are at risk of that unfortunate fate once again.
Match Details:
New Zealand v Pakistan | Friday, 19 January | Basin Reserve, Wellington | 0:00
Match Betting Odds
New Zealand 2/7 | Tie 35/1 | Pakistan 51/20
How New Zealand stacks up
The Black Caps were really tested in recent games, coming close to their record 11th consecutive home win, but the explosive Colin de Grandhomme played a key role in keeping their streak alive.
De Grandhomme’s return brings solid balance to the team, and he’s expected to be crucial with the ball in Wellington’s conditions, where pace bowlers can extract more bounce and movement.
New Zealand have been power-hitting Pakistan’s bowling attack with great success so far, and if the visitors crack under pressure of a possible whitewash, we expect more of the same in this final encounter.
Selectors might consider giving Matt Henry another shot with the ball, possibly resting Trent Boult ahead of the T20I series. Lockie Ferguson could lead the pace attack with the new ball.
The Kiwis boast an impressive record at the Basin Reserve, winning six of their last eight completed ODIs here, including a commanding 61-run victory over Pakistan less than two weeks ago. Kane Williamson’s stellar form was instrumental then, but others will need to share the run-scoring load this time around.
Pakistan’s challenge
Pakistan’s victorious campaign in last year’s Champions Trophy now seems like a distant memory. A win on Friday won’t erase the woes entirely, but could stem the tide of criticism a little.
Opening the bowling with Hasan Ali backfired in recent matches, so it would be wise for Pakistan to stick with their most consistent bowler after the initial powerplay.
Some positives came from half-centuries by Fakhar Zaman, Haris Sohail, Mohammad Hafeez, and Sarfraz Ahmed in the last match, but at least one will need to convert their starts into a big ton this time round.
All-rounder Shoaib Malik is likely out due to concussion symptoms from a head injury in Hamilton. Imam-ul-Haq looks set to replace him at the top of the order.
Good news for the match day: Wellington is predicted to enjoy clear skies with a high of 32°C, so no weather interruptions like previous shortened ODIs are expected.
Final Word: New Zealand 2/7
Having suffered a 5-0 drubbing by Pakistan in Lahore back in 2003, New Zealand is poised to turn the tables and miraculously sweep Pakistan on home turf 15 years later. Interestingly, Shoaib Malik was part of that Pakistani side back then.
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