New Zealand vs Pakistan Prediction: New Zealand have a better batting lineup

New Zealand and Pakistan are going head to head in the 4th Match of T20 Series at Hagley Oval, Christchurch, New Zealand on 19 Jan 2024. New Zealand have a better batting lineup with most of its batsmen in form. Who will win this game of cricket?

New Zealand has welcomed back Lockie Ferguson and bolstered their bowling attack, creating a lineup that closely resembles the anticipated team for the T20 World Cup later this year. The batting lineup has been led by Finn Allen, who impressively hit 16 sixes in the previous match, along with other valuable contributions from teammates. Unfortunately, Devon Conway has struggled and lacks confidence after missing out in all the matches thus far. However, Daryl Mitchell, Tim Seifert, and Glenn Phillips are all in good form and appear comfortable facing the Pakistani attack. While the depth of New Zealand's batting lineup has yet to be thoroughly tested, the presence of Tim Southee at number 10 provides a cushion to recover from early wickets. The New Zealand bowling unit, spearheaded by Tim Southee, has employed strategic tactics, such as using cutters, to disrupt the opposing batters' rhythm. Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Mitch Santner, and Ish Sodhi complete a formidable bowling lineup, with Glenn Phillips ready to contribute as necessary.

Finn Allen, Devon Conway, Tim Seifert (wk), Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Mitchell Santner (c), Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson

Pakistan captain Shaheen Afridi was left without any explanations after suffering their third consecutive loss in the series. The team has attempted different strategies, introduced new players, and made significant changes to the bowling lineup in the previous match, but unfortunately, none of these efforts proved successful. However, there is one player who has shown resilience amidst criticism - Babar Azam. Despite being unjustly blamed for the team's problems, his consistent performances at number three and his determined approach deserve more recognition from the Pakistani public. It remains to be seen whether Pakistan will make alterations to their batting order for the upcoming match, and it is possible that Sahibzada Farhan or Haseebullah Khan could be brought in. Shaheen Afridi's strategies have also been ineffective, and his struggles with the ball only exacerbate Pakistan's issues. Although Wasim Jr and Zaman Khan displayed impressive performances in the previous match, Haris Rauf's expensive bowling remains a concern. Additionally, Mohammad Nawaz's capabilities as a frontline spinner seem limited. However, completely ruling out Pakistan would be a mistake. They still possess a significant threat, but it is advised to refrain from betting on them at this time.

Mohammad Rizwan, Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Iftikhar Ahmed, Azam Khan (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Mohd Waseem Jr., Shaheen Afridi (c), Zaman Khan, Haris Rauf

The team that wins the coin toss will likely choose to be on the field first. It is worth noting that Pakistan has previously played two T20 matches at the Hagley Oval and won both of them while chasing.

The weather conditions in Christchurch are expected to be cloudy, with no rain predicted. The pitch typically favors batting, and we can anticipate another high-scoring match. It is likely that both teams will aim for a score around 200, especially if New Zealand bats first. This venue holds good memories for both Mohamamd Rizwan and Babar Azam, as they have previously scored 78 and 79 not out respectively in victorious matches.

While it is suggested to support New Zealand as the likely winner of the game, a more strategic betting approach may be to place in-play bets as well. The odds for New Zealand to win may not be enticing, and Pakistan has not given bookmakers any reason to offer them better odds. We recommend betting on New Zealand to win, but being cautious with your bet amounts and considering hedging your bets when the opportunity arises.