By Zainab Shafiq 
In a significant setback for New Zealand, skipper Kane Williamson has been ruled out of the ongoing T20 International series against Pakistan due to a hamstring injury. Williamson, who experienced tightness in his right hamstring during the second T20I against Pakistan, retired hurt after scoring 26 off 15 balls. Despite initially resting in the third T20I, it has been confirmed that Williamson will be sidelined for the entire series to avoid any risks ahead of the upcoming Test series against South Africa.
This unfortunate development has forced the New Zealand team management to make a quick change, with Tim Seifert stepping in to replace Williamson for the remaining matches in the series. Williamson, known for his consistent performances, has had a history of injuries, having torn his ACL in the IPL 2023 and breaking his thumb during the ICC World Cup 2023.
As the Black Caps currently lead the five-match series 2-0, a win in the upcoming match in Dunedin on January 17 would secure the series for New Zealand. The team displayed its dominance in the first two matches, winning by 46 runs in Auckland and securing a 21-run victory in the second match in Hamilton.
On the other side, Pakistan, led by Shaheen Shah Afridi, is grappling with a struggling middle-order and is in dire need of solutions to avoid a series loss. The remaining schedule includes matches on January 17 at University Oval, Dunedin; January 19 at Hagley Oval, Christchurch; and January 21 at Hagley Oval, Christchurch, providing ample opportunities for both teams to make their mark in the series.
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