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Key Points

Mitchell Santner won the toss and chose to bat first in the exciting ODI tri-series opener in Lahore. Both Pakistan and New Zealand are using this match as a critical preparation ground for the upcoming Champions Trophy. The teams have fielded strong playing XIs, with notable players like Babar Azam and Kane Williamson set to showcase their skills. This match represents an important opportunity for both teams to assess their strategies and form before the major tournament.

Key Points: ODI Tri-Series: NZ Wins Toss, Opts to Bat in Lahore Clash

  • New Zealand and Pakistan prepare for upcoming Champions Trophy
  • Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman to open batting for Pakistan
  • Strong playing XIs selected for tri-series match
  • Gaddafi Stadium hosts crucial preparatory encounter
2 min read

ODI Tri-Series: New Zealand win toss, opt to bat; Babar to open with Fakhar for Pakistan

New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner elects to bat first in ODI tri-series opener against Pakistan at Gaddafi Stadium, preparing for Champions Trophy.

"We are going to bat, looks a good wicket to be fair. - Mitchell Santner"

Lahore, February 8

New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner won the toss and opted to bat against Pakitan in the first match of the ODI tri-series on Saturday at the Gaddafi Stadium.

The tri-series between Pakistan, New Zealand and South Africa will be the perfect opportunity for them to fine-tune their preparations for the Champions Trophy. Both sides have pitched in a strong playing XI, offering the opportunity for the players to understand the nature of the surface before the tournament.

New Zealand and Pakistan will look to make the most out of the tri-series, considering they will play the tournament opener in Karachi on February 19.

After winning the toss, Mitchell Santner said, "We are going to bat, looks a good wicket to be fair. Don't think it will change much. It wasn't too wet the other night. Want to put some runs on the board. It's very important for us. See what the pitches will do before the Champions Trophy. We are going with three quicks."

Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan said during the time of the toss, "It's a good chance for us before the Champions Trophy. I mentioned in the press conference, Babar Azam will open with Fakhar. We have Rauf, Afridi and Naseem Shah. We want to prepare for the Champions Trophy."

Pakistan (Playing XI): Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Rizwan(w/c), Babar Azam, Khushdil Shah, Kamran Ghulam, Salman Agha, Tayyab Tahir, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed

New Zealand (Playing XI): Rachin Ravindra, Will Young, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham(w), Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner(c), Matt Henry, Ben Sears, William ORourke.

- ANI

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