PAK vs NZ T20I: A couple of injuries have posed as a big challenge for the Kiwis ahead of their T20I tour of Pakistan, in the coming week. Fine batter Fin Allen and veteran pacer Adam Milne have been ruled out of the Pakistan vs New Zealand T20Is owing to the injuries. The development was confirmed by the New Zealand Cricket (NZC) Board on Friday, April 12. 



New Zealand have subsequently roped in Wicketkeeper Tom Blundell and uncapped all-rounder Zak Foulkes to the squad for the Pakistan tour, which starts on April 18 in Rawalpindi. 



While Foulkes has earned a maiden call-up to the shortest format side, Tom Blundell hasn't tasted anything in the format for more than two years now.



Adam Milne, reportedly, injured his ankle during one of the training sessions, while Finn Allen suffered a back injury, just ahead of their departure to Pakistan for the five-match T20I series.



"The nature of their respective injuries meant they wouldn't be able to take part in any of the five-match series, due to start next week in Rawalpindi," NZC said in a statement. "Plans for their return to cricket will be confirmed in the coming weeks."



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/01/finn-allen-1.jpg" alt="PAK vs NZ T20I: Injury News, Finn Allen, Adam Milne RULED OUT of Pakistan vs New Zealand T20Is" class="wp-image-125347" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Finn Allen Firepower Dashes Pakistan (Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



It's worth noting that New Zealand's second-string squad has been picked for the PAK vs NZ T20Is due to their top players' commitments in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. The likes of Kane Williamson, Trent Boult, Daryl Mitchell and Rachin Ravindra among others are a part of the IPL 2024 proceedings.



Talking about the presence of Tom Blundell in the series against Pakistan, New Zealand coach Gary Stead said, "Tom is a highly experienced player and along with his wicketkeeping and batting skillsets is a leader in any group he is a part of. He also brings recent experience in the conditions, having taken part in both tours to Pakistan last year."



Meanwhile, the selection of Zak Foulkes, for the PAK vs NZ T20I series, has been based on his recent performances in the domestic games.



"Zak has had an impressive season for Canterbury including being their leading wicket-taker in all the competitions. He has displayed impressive skills with the ball, particularly in T20 cricket for the Kings. We also know he has skills with the bat and it will be an excellent opportunity for him to be part of the group."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">PAK vs NZ T20I Schedule</h2>



The <a href="https://www.pcb.com.pk/">PAK</a> vs NZ five-match T20I series is set to begin on April 18 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi. In fact, the first three T20I games between PAK vs NZ will be held at the same venue, before the actions shift to Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore for the last two games of the series. 



<ul>
<li>1st T20I: April 18 - Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium - 7:30 PM</li>



<li>2nd T20I: April 20 - Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium - 7:30 PM</li>



<li>3rd T20I: April 21 - Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium - 7:30 PM</li>



<li>4th T20I: April 25 - Gaddafi Stadium - 7:30 PM</li>



<li>5th T20I: April 27 - Gaddafi Stadium - 7:30 PM</li>
</ul>



ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ipl-2024-points-table-rcb-got-its-sixth-defeat-of-the-season/">IPL 2024 Points Table: RCB got its sixth defeat of the season</a>

PAK vs NZ T20I: Injury News, Finn Allen, Adam Milne RULED OUT of Pakistan vs New Zealand T20Is

pak-vs-nz-t20i-injury-news-finn-allen-adam-milne-ruled-out-of-pakistan-vs-new-zealand-t20is

Pace spearhead and former T20i captain of the Shaheens - Shaheen Shah Afridi is likely to miss the first two T20 International games of the home five match series against New Zealand, as reported by Geo Super on Monday.



According to some sources, the Pakistan Cricket Board have taken the decision of letting Shaheen rest for the first two games against New Zealand, keeping in mind the workload of the 24 year old. The PCB have recently started a rotation policy which aims at managing the workload of the players before this year's T20 World Cup



Afridi will most likely be absent from the playing 11 for the first two T20i's but will definitely participate in the remaining three games of the five match series against New Zealand. Shaheen Shah Afridi was recently replaced by Babar Azam as the captain of the National Team for the white ball formats.&nbsp;



The Pakistan Cricket Board said that the decision of replacing Shaheen with Babar as the captain was ?a strategic change which aims at ensuring the best performance and well being of the Pakistan National Cricket Team?.



?He (Shaheen Shah Afridi) has performed exceptionally well for Pakistan as a fast bowler in the last few years and has tirelessly led the team's pace attack since the 2021 T20 World Cup. The PCB are aware of the importance of rotating the players and providing them ample rest so that they can retain their peak performance. The decision of letting Shaheen rest has been taken in accordance to the board?s policy of protecting the players, especially pace bowlers given the injury issues they have faced in the last two years,? the Pakistan Cricket Board added.



?Keeping the worldload management of the players in mind, this decision has been taken to ensure that our team's main fast bowlers remain completely fit and at the top of their game. The PCB does not want the Men?s National Cricket Team to face injury crisis in the bowling department similar to the 2022 T20 World Cup, when Shaheen Afridi had to be monitored closely post his return from injury and the 2023 ODI World Cup where the team was without the services of Naseem Shah.?



The Black Caps arrived in Islamabad on 14th April, Sunday while the home team recently assembled in the country's&nbsp;Federal Capital post the conclusion of the Ramzan Eid holidays.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Pakistan vs New Zealand 2024: Full squads</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/04/Pakistan-8.jpg" alt="PAK vs NZ: Where to watch the Pakistan vs New Zealand 2024 series in India??" class="wp-image-132759" /></figure>



Pakistan - Babar Azam (Captain), Azam Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Iftikhar Ahmed, Fakhar Zaman, Abbas Afridi, Imad Wasim, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Rizwan, Naseem Shah, Irfan Khan, Shadab Khan, Saim Ayub, Usama Mir, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Zaman Khan and Usman Khan.&nbsp;



New Zealand - Michael Bracewell (Captain), Mark Chapman, Jacob Duffy, Tom Blundell, Zak Foulkes, Dean Foxcroft, Cole McConchie, Ben Lister, Jimmy Neesham, Tim Robinson, Will O?Rourke, Ben Sears, Ish Sodhi, Josh Clarkson and Tim Seifert.?



CHECK: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/pak-vs-nz-first-three-t20is-are-under-the-threat-of-getting-washed-out-due-to-rain/">First three T20I?s are under the threat of getting washed?out?due?to?rain</a>

Pakistan vs New Zealand: Shaheen Shah Afridi set to miss the first?two?T20I's

pakistan-vs-new-zealand-shaheen-shah-afridi-set-to-miss-the-first-two-t20is

PAK vs NZ 1st T20I Dream11 Prediction: While most of the cricket world is busy admiring and experiencing the high octane Indian Premier League (IPL) in India, Pakistan is set to host New Zealand for a T20I series in what can be called a low-key engagement between the two sides. The New Zealand tour of Pakistan for 5 T20Is begins on April 18 with both the sides locking horns against each other in the opening encounter at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. 



<div class="wp-block-rank-math-toc-block" id="rank-math-toc"><h2>Table of Contents</h2><nav><div><div class=""><a href="#pak-vs-nz-1st-t-20-i-overview">PAK vs NZ 1st T20I Overview</a></div><div class=""><a href="#pak-vs-nz-1st-t-20-i-expected-playing-11">PAK vs NZ 1st T20I Expected Playing11</a></div><div class=""><a href="#pak-vs-nz-1st-t-20-i-full-squad">PAK vs NZ 1st T20I Full Squad</a></div><div class=""><a href="#pak-vs-nz-1st-t-20-i-dream-11-prediction">PAK vs NZ 1st T20I Dream11 Prediction</a></div><div class=""><a href="#pak-vs-nz-1st-t-20-i-captain-vice-captain-picks">PAK vs NZ 1st T20I Captain &amp; Vice-Captain Picks</a></div><div class=""><a href="#rawalpindi-cricket-stadium-pitch-report">Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium Pitch Report</a></div></div></nav></div>



Why we said it a low-key bilateral series is because New Zealand is not at their best as they travel to Pakistan for the T20I series. Most of their prominent T20I batters, who will actually walk into the playing11 anyday, are busy plying their trade in the ongoing IPL 2024. A second string squad has been offered to Pakistan by the New Zealand Cricket Board (NZC), which will be led by Michael Bracewell.



On the other side, Pakistan is on their full strength, at least on paper. Babar Azam has made a comeback in the captians capacity in the T20I side. He will replace Shaheen Shah Afridi, who was given just a solitary series run as the leader of the side.



Pakistan also marks the return of Imad Wasim and Mohammad Amir, who have take a U-turn from their international retirement only with the hopes of playing the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024 in the Caribbean and the USA.



For Pakistan, most of their prominent players are available and there aren't any injury concerns as well, barring Haris Rauf, who is currently nursing a shoulder injury which he sustained during the PSL 2024.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="pak-vs-nz-1st-t-20-i-overview">PAK vs NZ 1st T20I Overview</h2>



Series/Tour:?New Zealand tour of Pakistan 2024



Match:?PAK vs NZ 1st T20I



Day/Date:?Thursday/April 18, 2024



Venue:?Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium



Time:?08:00 PM IST



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="pak-vs-nz-1st-t-20-i-expected-playing-11">PAK vs NZ 1st T20I Expected Playing11</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/04/Pak-vs-NZ-T20I-1024x683.jpg" alt="PAK vs NZ 1st T20I Playing11, Dream11 Prediction, Pakistan vs New Zealand Dream11 Team, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium Pitch Report, Pakistan Playing11 | New Zealand tour of Pakistan 2024" class="wp-image-132857" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image Source: Google</figcaption></figure>



Pakistan's Expected Playing11: Saim Ayub, Babar Azam (c), Azam Khan (wk), Fakhar Zaman, Imad Wasim, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Rizwan, Mohammad Amir, Naseem Shah, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Afridi, Usman Khan/Mohammad Amir



New Zealand's Expected Playing11: Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell (c), Jacob Duffy, Tim Seifert, Tom Blundell (WK), Mark Chapman, Jimmy Neesham, Adam Milne, Ben Lister, Ben Sears, Ish Sodhi



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="pak-vs-nz-1st-t-20-i-full-squad">PAK vs NZ 1st T20I Full Squad</h2>



Pakistan Squad: Babar Azam(c), Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Rizwan(w), Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Imad Wasim, Iftikhar Ahmed, Shaheen Afridi, Usama Mir, Naseem Shah, Azam Khan, Mohammad Amir, Zaman Khan, Abbas Afridi, Irfan Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Usman Khan



New Zealand Squad: Tim Seifert(w), Michael Bracewell(c), Josh Clarkson, Tim Robinson, Mark Chapman, Jacob Duffy, James Neesham, Ben Sears, William ORourke, Zakary Foulkes, Ish Sodhi, Ben Lister, Dean Foxcroft, Tom Blundell, Cole McConchie



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="pak-vs-nz-1st-t-20-i-dream-11-prediction">PAK vs NZ 1st T20I Dream11 Prediction</h2>



Wicketkeeper: Tim Siefert (wk)



Batters: Saim Ayub, Mark Chapman, Fakhar Zaman, 



All-Rounders: Shabad Khan, James Neesham, Michael Bracewell, 



Bowlers: Shaheen Shah Afridi, Ish Sodhi, Naseem Shah, Mohamamd Amir.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="pak-vs-nz-1st-t-20-i-captain-vice-captain-picks">PAK vs NZ 1st T20I Captain &amp; Vice-Captain Picks</h2>



Captain:?Saim Ayub



Vice-Captain:?Tim Siefert/Shadab Khan



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="rawalpindi-cricket-stadium-pitch-report">Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium Pitch Report</h2>



Most of the surfaces in Pakistan offer flat wickets. Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium is no different. The batters have ablsolutely rocked the fixtures held at this venue more often than not. There is some bounce on the wicket, but it gets even to bat on as the innings progresses. The spinners may get some assistance later in the innings. All in all, expect a proper run-fest from Pakistan and New Zealand.



ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/pak-vs-nz-1st-t20i-rain-prediction-weather-forecast-of-rawalpindi-pitch-report-rawalpindi-cricket-stadium-new-zealand-tour-of-pakistan-2024/">PAK vs NZ 1st T20I: Rain Prediction, Weather Forecast of Rawalpindi, Pitch Report Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium | New Zealand tour of Pakistan 2024</a>

PAK vs NZ 1st T20I Playing11, Dream11 Prediction, Pakistan vs New Zealand Dream11 Team, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium Pitch Report, Pakistan Playing11 | New Zealand tour of Pakistan 2024

pak-vs-nz-1st-t20i-playing11-dream11-prediction-pakistan-vs-new-zealand-dream11-team-rawalpindi-cricket-stadium-pitch-report-pakistan-playing11-new-zealand-tour-of-pakistan-2024

PAK vs NZ 2nd T20I: In what promises to be a really fascinating and entertaining encounter, Babar Azam led Pakistan are set to lock horns against Michael Bracewell?s New Zealand in the second T20i of the five match series at Rawalpindi's Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Saturday. The first T20i got washed out due to rain, but there's no shortage of matches as four games are still left to be played in the series.&nbsp;



The Shaheens are not expected to make any changes in their playing 11 and they are expected to field the same team as the first game, featuring a mix of youngsters and experienced players.&nbsp;



The trio of Abrar Ahmed, Irfan Khan Niazi and Usman Khan made their T20 International debut in the previous game but, they didn't get a chance to make their debuts memorable as rain washed out the first T20i.&nbsp;



Saim Ayub and Pakistan's captain Babar Azam are anticipated to open the inning for the Men in Green and wicket keeper batsman Mohammad Rizwan is likely to bat at number three.&nbsp;



The middle order will consist of the likes of Irfan Khan Niazi and Usman Khan, providing a blend of power hitting and stability in the team.&nbsp;



The duo of Shadab Khan and Iftikhar Ahmed will be handling the All - Rounder department of the Shaheens and both of them provide depth and versatility in both bowling and batting. Iftikhar is also someone who can play big shots at will and he will also play the role of the finisher for his side.&nbsp;



Talking about the bowling department, seamers Naseem Shah, Mohammad Amir and Shaheen Shah Afridi will be handling the fast bowling unit. Notably, Mohammad Amir is making his return to Pakistan's Men's National Cricket Team after a span of four years. Abar Ahmed on the other hand will also play a key role for the home side as he will be looking to trouble the Kiwi batters with his spin bowling variations.&nbsp;



The first T20 International game between the two teams was called off after just two balls due to constant rainfall in the city of Rawalpindi. With the weather forecast showing a decrease in the chances of rainfall ahead of the second T20 International, fans would be hoping to enjoy the full game without any interruption.&nbsp;



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Pakistan?s likely playing 11 for the second T20I against New Zealand:</h4>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/04/Pakistan-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-132530" /></figure>



Saim Ayub, Babar Azam (Captain), Mohammad Rizwan (WK), Iftikhar Ahmed, Usman Khan, Irfan Khan Niazi, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed and Mohammad Amir.&nbsp;



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Pakistan's squad for the New Zealand series:</h4>



Babar Azam (Captain), Saim Ayub, Mohammad Rizwan (WK), Iftikhar Ahmed, Usman Khan, Imad Wasim, Azam Khan (WK), Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Naseem Shah, Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Fakhar Zaman, Abrar Ahmed, Usama Mir, Irfan Khan Niazi and Zaman Khan.&nbsp;



Reserves: Mohammad Ali, Haseebullah, Sahibzada Farhan, Agha Salman and Mohammad Wasim Jr



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">New Zealand's tour of Pakistan schedule:</h4>



20th April: 2nd T20 International, Rawalpindi



21st April: 3rd T20 International, Rawalpindi&nbsp;



25th April: 4th T20 International, Lahore



27th April: 5th T20 International, Lahore 



CHECK: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/pak-vs-nz-2nd-t20i-new-zealands-strongest-playing-11-against-pakistan-in-2nd-t20i/" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/pak-vs-nz-2nd-t20i-new-zealands-strongest-playing-11-against-pakistan-in-2nd-t20i/">New Zealand?s strongest playing11 against Pakistan in 2nd T20I</a>

PAK vs NZ 2nd T20I: Pakistan strongest playing 11 against New Zealand?in?2nd?T20I

pak-vs-nz-2nd-t20i-pakistan-strongest-playing-11-against-new-zealand-in-2nd-t20i

PAK vs NZ 4th T20I: In what promises to be a really entertaining and compelling encounter, Pakistan led by Babar Azam are set to take on Michael Bracewell led New Zealand in the fourth T20 International match of the five match series at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium. The match will take place on 25th April and it will commence at 8:00pm IST.



In the previous encounter, Kiwi batter Mark Chapman played an unbeaten knock of 87 runs and led a second string New Zealand team to a shocking victory by seven wickets against Pakistan in the third T20i in Rawalpindi on Sunday. The Southpaw scored 87 runs in just 42 balls and helped his side chase the target of 179 runs in 18.2 overs against a really good Pakistan bowling unit, silencing a packed crowd of 16,000 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Skipper Babar Azam (37 runs) and Shadab Khan (41 runs) helped the home side post a total of 178-4 on the board but the Shaheens bowling unit failed to defend the score as Kiwis leveled the five match series 1-1.



The fourth and the penultimate T20i will take place at Lahore and both the teams will be looking to showcase their best possible performance in the fourth game and head into the fifth T20i on a winning note.



The penultimate game will be particularly more important for the Men in Green as this series against New Zealand is acting as preparatory ground for the 2024 T20 World Cup and the best performers will be chosen in the squad for this year's mega event.



Talking about the playing 11 of the home side, some changes have to be made if the Babar Azam led team want to win the fourth T20i.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="pakistans-strongest-playing-11-for-the-4th-t-20-i-against-new-zealand">Pakistan's Strongest playing 11 for the 4th T20I against New Zealand</h3>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="openers-babar-azam-captain-and-saim-ayub">Openers - Babar Azam (Captain) and Saim Ayub</h4>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/04/Babar-Azam-Captain-and-Saim-Ayub.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-133306" /></figure>



The duo of skipper Babar Azam and Saim Ayub are expected to continue opening the inning for the Shaheens in the fourth match as well. Both of them played really good innings against the visitors in the 3rd T20i and even got involved in a partnership of 55 runs in 38 balls for the opening wicket. The opening duo have played many match winning innings together for Peshawar Zalmi in the PSL and expect them to do the same for the National Team as well.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="middle-order-fakhar-zaman-haseebullah-khan-wk-and-irfan-khan-niazi">Middle Order- Fakhar Zaman, Haseebullah Khan (WK) and Irfan Khan Niazi</h4>



Fakhar Zaman didn't get a chance to play in the first two games of the series but he is anticipated to play in the penultimate T20i in place of Usman Khan. Usman has failed to replicate his PSL 2024 form in International Cricket for the Men in Green. In the 2nd T20i, the 28 year old managed to score just seven runs in six balls as Ish Sodhi clean bowled him with a beautiful delivery. In the third match, Usman scored just five runs in seven balls and got dismissed once off the bowling of Ish Sodhi. Fakhar didn't play in the first two games in order to give Usman a chance to prove his worth but after seeing his poor performances with the bat, the team management will be tempted to include Fakhar instead of Usman in the playing 11.



Mohammad Rizwan got injured while batting in the third T20i against the Kiwis and the injury forced him to retire hurt. Haseebullah Khan was recently included in the squad for the New Zealand series as an injury replacement for Azam Khan and post the injury of Rizwan, the 21 year old Haseebullah is expected to replace Rizwan in the playing 11 and don the gloves against the Kiwis. He made his T20i debut earlier this year in January against New Zealand but didn't get a chance to bat. In domestic T20 Cricket, the Peshawar Zalmi batter has scored 481 runs in 28 games at a not so impressive strike rate of 122.08. But he has the potential to succeed at the highest level of the game and it remains to be seen how well he performs in the fourth game if he gets selected.



Irfan Khan Niazi will come out to bat at number five and he has had a good start to his T20 International career having scored 18*runs and 30 runs in the second and the third T20i's respectively. He is known for his hard hitting abilities and he would like to play yet another useful knock for his side in the penultimate T20i against the Kiwis.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="all-rounders-iftikhar-ahmed-and-shadab-khan">All Rounders- Iftikhar Ahmed and Shadab Khan</h4>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/04/692891_89645904.jpg" alt="Iftikhar Ahmed and Shadab Khan" class="wp-image-133307" /></figure>



The duo of Shadab Khan and Iftikhar Ahmed are anticipated to handle the All - Rounder department yet again for the fourth T20i against the Kiwis. Shadab Khan has had a decent series so far picking up two wickets in two games and even played a crucial knock of 41 runs in 20 balls at a strike rate of 205.00. The 25 year old will be crucial in the home side?s hopes of winning the five match series against New Zealand.



Iftikhar Ahmed on the other hand hasn't received any chance so far to prove his worth to his side in the current series. He didn't get a chance to bat in the previous two games but he got a chance to bowl in the last game but he failed to do much with the ball as he gave away 16 runs in his two overs and failed to pick up a wicket. However, Iftikhar is a really good player and will be anticipated to play a key role with both the bat and the ball in the penultimate T20i.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="bowlers-mohammad-amir-abrar-ahmed-naseem-shah-and-abbas-afridi">Bowlers - Mohammad Amir, Abrar Ahmed, Naseem Shah and Abbas Afridi.</h4>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/04/cover_1684915911FotoJet-2023-05-24T131123.924.jpg" alt="Mohammad Amir, Abrar Ahmed, Naseem Shah and Abbas Afridi." class="wp-image-133308" /></figure>



Shaheen Shah Afridi didn't have a good game with the bowl in the third T20i as he gave away 37 runs in 3.2 overs without picking up a wicket at an economy rate of 11.10. The team management will be looking to give some rest to Afridi for the fourth game and bring in Mohammad Amir in his place. Amir took two wickets in the second T20i but he was benched in favor of Abbas Afridi. He is anticipated to play in the next game and the 30 year old would be looking to once again play a key role and help his side win the fourth T20i.



Abrar Ahmed will be handling the spin bowling duties alongside Shadab Khan. He picked up two wickets in the second T20i but didn't get a chance to bowl in the third game. Captain Babar will be looking towards Abrar to get those crucial breakthroughs with the ball in the penultimate game of the series.



Naseem Shah made his much awaited return from injury recently and while he has picked up two wickets in three games so far, his economy has been a point of concern and he would like to bowl economically in the fourth match of the series.



Abbas Afridi was given a chance to play in place of Mohammad Amir in the previous game and he impressed with the bowl as he picked up two scalps in three overs. He is in good form and would like to trouble the Kiwi batters once again with the ball and his wicket taking abilities.



READ:<a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/pak-vs-nz-joke-of-the-year-fans-troll-shaheen-afridi-as-he-calls-mohammad-rizwan-bradman-of-t20-cricket/" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/pak-vs-nz-joke-of-the-year-fans-troll-shaheen-afridi-as-he-calls-mohammad-rizwan-bradman-of-t20-cricket/"> ?Joke of the year? Fans troll Shaheen Afridi as he calls Mohammad Rizwan Bradman of T20 cricket</a>

PAK vs NZ 4th T20I: Pakistan's Strongest playing 11 for the 4th T20I against New Zealand

pak-vs-nz-4th-t20i-pakistans-strongest-playing-11-for-the-4th-t20i-against-new-zealand

The Indian Premier League (IPL) is a T20 league operated by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Inaugurated back in 2007, the tournament is one of the biggest and the wealthiest among franchise-level cricket tournaments. It is a double-round-robin tournament comprising 10 teams representing either states or cities of India.
The IPL is widely regarded as one of the greatest platforms for emerging players, whether from India or other countries around the world. Scouting several big, talented players, the league has seen many promising players enter the role of skipper. 
<h2 dir="ltr">Here’s a list of the five youngest captains in IPL history:</h2>
<h3 dir="ltr">1: Virat Kohli (22 years 4 months and 6 days)</h3>
Former Indian captain Virat Kohli is the youngest-ever captain in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He stepped in as the captain for RCB in 2011, replacing injured Daniel Vettori for three games. 
As the captain, Kohli’s leadership was marked by his intense commitment to fitness, work ethic, and aggressive approach to the game. In 2021, Kohli decided to step down as RCB’s captain after the IPL season, citing the need for a new phase in his career. 
<h3 dir="ltr">2: Steve Smith (22 years 11 months and 9 days)</h3>
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202501/image_430x256_6791a78be3f89.jpg" alt="" width="783" height="487">
Steve Smith took the Pune Warriors India captaincy from Sourav Ganguly (Image Credit: gettyimages)
Australian legendary batter Steve Smith, one of the most accomplished cricketers of the current generation, is next on our list of the youngest IPL captains. He turned in as the stand-in captain for Pune Warriors India, replacing veteran Indian skipper <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sourav_Ganguly">Sourav Ganguly</a>, who rested himself in 2011. Despite his young age, his calmness and perseverance in decision-making on the field set him apart, particularly in high-pressure situations.
Steve Smith also turned the captain for Australia in several matches of the 2015 World Cup, as he led them to wins on multiple occasions. Smith also led Australia in the 2019 Cricket World Cup as well as the 2017 Champions Trophy. 
<h3 dir="ltr">3: Shreyas Iyer (23 years 3 months and 21 days)</h3>
Indian middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer stepped into the captaincy role after Gautam Gambhir stepped down from the post-midseason in 2018. Under his leadership, DC underwent a remarkable transformation, rising from the lower ranks of the tournament to become one of the most competitive teams.
Having started his leadership role in 2018, he went on to be a superstar with the Kolkata Knight Riders, this time not replacing but reuniting with Gautam Gambhir as captain and mentor. Iyer won the IPL title as the skipper with the Kolkata Knight Riders in 2024. 
<h3 dir="ltr">4: Suresh Raina (23 years 3 months and 22 days)</h3>
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Former Indian batting all-rounder Suresh Raina led his favourite franchise, Chennai Super Kings, in MS Dhoni’s absence in the year 2008. Raina was largely known for his upfront skills with the bat as well as his electrifying efforts on the field. However, relatively young Raina captained the likes of great Matthew Hayden, Michael Hussey, and Muralitharan with immense motivation and contributed to CSK’s growing competitive edge as they made it to the finals in the inaugural season. 
<h3 dir="ltr">5: Rishabh Pant (23 years 6 months and 6 days)</h3>
Indian wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant was named the captain of Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) in the 2021 season after the former skipper Shreyas Iyer was ruled out of the season owing to injury. Despite being new to a leadership role, Pant stepped up with sheer confidence and showed great maturity on the field. Pant’s natural energy and unique stance on the field helped the team get back their morale, though owing to some unforeseen situations Pant doesn’t have a very impressive record as a skipper.
ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/top-5-underdog-talents-who-can-be-star-favourite-players-post-ipl-2025/">Five Underdog Talents Who Can Make It Big in IPL 2025</a>

Here is a list of the youngest among the IPL captains.

Scouting several big, talented players, the league has seen many promising players enter the role of skipper at a very young age, as they went on to lead several senior players under their leadership.

IPL, in its history, has seen several legendary young players who have stepped in as captains of their franchise. Here is a list of the youngest among the IPL captains.

Five youngest captains in IPL history ft. Rishabh Pant

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Elite Indian All-Rounder Hardik Pandya was once considered as the front runner to become the next captain of Team India. He was leading the team in T20 Internationals in the absence of Rohit Sharma who was busy preparing for tha 2023 ODI World Cup. Many thought that Junior Pandya will replace Rohit as the captain in limited overs formats. 
However, ever since Gautam Gambhir was appointed as the new head coach of the Men in Blue, things have gone all wrong for Pandya. Suryakumar Yadav was given the T20 captaincy duties, which was a complete gamble. Moreover, the 31-year-old was not even considered for the role of the vice-captain. 
He was the Vice-captain in the T20 World Cup of 2024 but, he was stripped off that role too. The Mumbai Indians skipper was not even considered for the role of the Vice-captain in the five-match T20 International series versus England. Instead, spin bowling all-rounder Axar Patel became the vice-captain of the team.The Men in Blue didn't appoint a deputy in the T20 International series versus South Africa and Bangladesh. 
Nobody has a clear answer to the question of why Pandya was not considered for the Vice-captaincy role. Former Indian Wicket-keeper batsman Dinesh Karthik also has no idea about it and he said, "I really don't know. I don't have a clue about why he was removed from the Vice-captaincy position. I don't see any reason. He (Hardik) has done well and he has also proven himself to be a good leader."
<h2>Hardik Pandya's record as the captain of Team India</h2>
Under the leadership of Hardik, the Indian Team have taken part in 16 T20 International matches, securing wins in 11 matches out of those 16 contests. Out of four T20 International series, Hardik helped the Indian team win three. 
<h3>What's the reason behind Hardik's removal as the captain of Team India? </h3>
Meanwhile, according to the news reports of Indian media, the fitness concerns of the 31-year-old was the main reason behind his removal as the captain of the Indian Cricket Team. He has a tendency of getting injured midway through an ICC tournament and then he will directly regain fitness in order to participate in the IPL. 
This didn't go down well with Gambhir and the selectors and this is the main reason why he was stripped off his captaincy duties. The player is currently participating in the T20 International series versus England and he will be playing in the ODI series too. 
He's a part of the Champions Trophy squad of Team India and his good form with both bat &amp; ball will be crucial in the success of the Rohit Sharma-led team in the marquee ICC event of this year. 
The 2013 Champions Trophy winners will be a part of Group - A alongside Fierce-Rivals Pakistan, Asian-Rivals Bangladesh, and Mitchell Santner-led New Zealand. They will be kicking off their 2025 Champions Trophy campaign versus Bangladesh in Dubai.
<h4>Champions Trophy 2025 squad of Team India: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Axar Patel, Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja, Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Washington Sundar and Kuldeep Yadav.</h4>
Do Read:<a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/-pakistan-darr-gaya-pcb-attacked-as-they-are-yet-to-announce-icc-champions-trophy-2025-squad-/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> "Pakistan darr gaya"- PCB attacked as they are yet to announce ICC Champions Trophy 2025 squad</a>

Hardik Pandya took India home at the end, India vs Bangladesh, 1st T20i | Image: AFP/Getty Images

Hardik Pandya, once considered as the main contender to lead Team India is not even struggling to get the Vice-captaincy duties of the National Team

Hardik Pandya was considered as the main contender to lead Team India but the appointment of Gautam Gambhir as the head coach has made the situation complicated for the Indian All-Rounder

Why was Hardik Pandya removed as the captain of Team India despite having an excellent record

why-was-hardik-pandya-removed-as-the-captain-of-team-india-despite-having-an-excellent-record

Prithvi Shaw did not find any takers as the Mumbai batter went unsold in the IPL 2025 auction. Prithvi, who had a base price of Rs 75 lakh in the auction, was released by Delhi Capitals but he did not attract any bids from the ten franchises.
Delhi Capitals co-owner Parth Jindal has said that Prithvi Shaw is misunderstood in many ways but needed a 'jolt' in the form of the IPL 2025 Auction snub. Shaw has been part of the Delhi franchise since returning as the U-19 World Cup winning captain in 2018 and was bought for 1.2 Crores. Ahead of the 2022 auction, the Mumbai batter was retained by DC for Rs. 7.5 Crore but the past few seasons hasn't been great for the 25-year-old.
Speaking to Sports Today, Jindal said that Shaw is a great kid but needed a jolt to get up from his slumber. The DC co-owner feels that Shaw needs to work hard, get back the love of the game and get disciplined. Jindal ended by saying he hopes the Mumbai batter can return back to his best form
Delhi has backed Prithvi Shaw a lot. DC had hoped that he is a powerplay player and would hit 6 boundaries in one over. And he did that too. He hit Shivam Mavi for 6 fours in an over. He had a lot of potential and DC backed him to the hilt. We always thought that if Shaw manages to score, we will win. And we gave him a lot of chances," Kaif told on Jio Cinema.

Prithvi got a lot of chances and teams have now finally moved on, and it is a matter of embarrassment that he did not get a bid for Rs 75 lakh. Maybe now, he finally goes back to basics. Someone like Sarfaraz Khan got into the national team by scoring lots and lots of runs," he concluded.
In the 79 matches he has played, Shaw has scored 1892 runs at an average of 23.95 and a strike-rate of 147.47. He also scored 14 fifties during this time.
<img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202501/image_870x_6790c5c9db6f5.jpg" alt="">
Prithvi shaw is just 25 and has lot of cricket left inside him ,the thing he need that to focus on his fitness and batting weakness. 
If the things goes well, not the next year but shaw will probably get chance to play in IPL this year too,if any team needs replacement for player ,he might be a good to get that place.

Prithvi Shaw Can Might Have Chance To Play IPL this Year ? | TATA IPL 2025

Prithvi Shaw After a successful start of his career getting set back and set back ,but the things is not over yet , Prithvi can be have to focus his fitness,the improved fitness can solve many things for him.

prithvi-shaw-can-might-have-chance-to-play-ipl-this-year-tata-ipl-2025

The MI Emirates produced a clinical display with the bat and the ball, handing the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders a 28-run defeat at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in the Match 14 of International League T20 (ILT20) 2025 on Tuesday, January 21.
MI Emirates got off to a strong start when they were asked to bat first, with openers Muhammad Waseem (38) and Kusal Perera making a strong stand at the top. The Sri Lankan Perera was the first to leave for 23 soon before the powerplay ended, following a 42-run partnership between the two players. Tom Banton entered, and he and Waseem made sure the MI Emirates maintained the run rate.
Banton was out for nine around the halfway point of the innings, while Waseem was out for 38 shortly after. Kieron Pollard replaced skipper Nicholas Pooran, but the seasoned right-hander struggled to get going and was eventually sent out for five by Ali Khan. With just over 6 overs remaining, the score was at 102/4.
Following Dan Mousley's dismissal for six, Romario Shepherd joined his skipper for the innings' last stretch. Jason Holder made a solid 49, but Pooran, who was hitting it cleanly, was almost at his half-century before he fell.
<img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202501/image_870x_6790c540e2f01.jpg" alt="">
Shepherd was given more attention in the last few overs as a result. In order to end with an undefeated 38 from 13 deliveries, the powerful right-hander then moved through the gears and hammered three maximums and four boundaries. After slowing down for a few overs in the middle, the MI Emirates eventually reached 186/6.

In second inning with openers Kyle Mayers and Andries Gous attacking the MI Emirates bowlers, the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders got off to a fast start. Before Dan Mousley ran him out with a brilliant bit of fielding, Mayers, who hit three sixes, scored 22 off 14 deliveries.
 
The MI Emirates seized control after that, finishing a 39-run partnership in the fourth over in second inning.
Following Joe Clarke's dismissal by Akeal Hosein for three, Romario Shepherd took out Michael-Kyle Pepper for five and Alishan Sharafu for four. The Abu Dhabi Knight Riders were 56/4 at the conclusion of a thrilling Powerplay.
The Abu Dhabi Knight Riders were further put under pressure after Waqar Salamkheil dismissed Laurie Evans for seven and Zahoor Khan caught Gous in the deep for thirty-four. Hopes of a recovery were raised when Sunil Narine and Andre Russell were called to the middle and embarked on a half-century stand.
But Narine was caught at cover for 13 in the 18th over, and David Willey was dismissed by Fazalhaq Farooqi in the 19th. The MI Emirates won easily, and Russell, who was still undefeated at 37 from 23 deliveries, was unable to lead his team across the finish line.

players like Romario Shepherd and Nicholas Pooran, the MI Emirates were able to close the gap on the top team to just two points.
Alzarri Joseph and Shepherd each took two wickets to thwart the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders' chase, while four of the MI Emirates' bowlers were in excellent form that evening.
In the whole match Romario Shepherd was the centre of attraction for the crowd with his bowling and batting, although the show was lasser but effective for MI Emirates to build pressure on the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders.
MI Emirates beat Abu Dhabi Knight Riders by 28 runs
<img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202501/image_870x_6790c5068b2ed.jpg" alt="">
MI Emirates 186/6 in 20 overs (Nicholas Pooran 49, Romario Shepherd 38 not out, Muhammad Waseem 38, Jason Holder 2 for 38, Ali Khan 2 for 58)

Abu Dhabi Knight Riders 158/9 in 20 overs (Andre Russell 37 not out, Andries Gous 34, Romario Shepherd 2/14, Alzarri Joseph 2/33, Waqar Salamkheil 1/13)

Player of the Match: Romario Shepherd

MI Emirates Beats Abu Dhabi Knight Riders | Pooran And Shepherd Shines

In ILT 2025 mi Emirates beats Abu Dhabi Knight Riders by 28 runs ,in this match Romario Shepherd and Nicholas Pooran SHines with bat,where Shepherd done a good bowling too.

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Romario Shepherd representing MI Emirates (MIE) Shepherd inning against pacer Ali Khan, hitting 6,4,4,6,6 to help his side to 186/6. He eventually finished with 38 off just 13 deliveries, with four fours and three sixes punctuating his innings.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will be delighted to know that their latest recruit, Romario Shepherd, has smashed 26 off the final five deliveries of the final over against Abu Dhabi Knight Riders in the International T20 (ILT20) in Abu Dhabi on January 21 (Tuesday).

With MI Emirates batting first, Shepherd entered the scene with his team in need of a strong finish. Facing Ali Khan in the last over, the hard-hitting all-rounder smashed an astonishing 26 runs off the final five balls. His innings was a clinic in clean, fearless striking:
The buzz around Romario Shepherd’s IPL prospects has intensified following his stellar performance. With RCB already eyeing impactful players for IPL 2025, Shepherd’s display of brute force and death-over mastery aligns perfectly with the team’s needs. His ability to turn games around in a matter of deliveries makes him a prime contender for the upcoming season.
Shepherd Could be X factor for RCB for lifting the IPL trophy With his batting and bowling and finishing the game at end. 

<img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202501/image_870x_6790c269a44e9.jpg" alt="">
Although, earlier Shepherd have some good records in ipl while playing with other team like MUMBAI INDIANS, LUCKNOW SUPER GIANTS and HYDERABAD too.
RCB secured his services in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 auction for his base price of INR 1.5 crore.

RCB's Shepherd hits 26 runs in last 5 deliveries against Abu dhabi Knight Riders

Romario Shepherd hits 26 runs in last 5 deliveries in ILT against Abu Dhabi Knight Riders,while shepherd performance pump the MI Emirates to victory over Abu Dhabi Knight Riders