The Men in Green are set to host New Zealand for a five-match T20I series in April, marking a crucial step in their preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024. This highly anticipated series comes after Pakistan’s recent tour of Australia, where they faced mixed results in the Test format, and a subsequent T20I series in New Zealand that ended 4-1 in favor of the Black Caps.
While the exact dates are yet to be confirmed, reports suggest that the series will unfold between April 14th and 24th. Lahore and Rawalpindi are expected to host the matches, with Karachi simultaneously hosting the Pakistan Women’s T20I series against West Indies Women.
The upcoming series holds significant importance for the Pakistani team, especially after the recent leadership change with Shaheen Shah Afridi taking over the reins from Babar Azam. The new captain’s T20I debut wasn’t the smoothest, and this series provides a perfect platform for him to solidify his leadership and team chemistry.
With the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024 currently underway, the players will have ample opportunity to hone their skills and maintain momentum before the T20I series. Additionally, Pakistan will also play a T20I series against Afghanistan before the New Zealand clash, followed by another against England after. This packed schedule provides invaluable practice and exposure for the team as they gear up for the World Cup.
The T20 World Cup 2024, co-hosted by the USA and West Indies, kicks off on June 1st. With a strong performance in the upcoming series against New Zealand, Afghanistan, and England, Pakistan can build confidence and momentum heading into the tournament. Can Afridi and his men rise to the occasion and bring home the coveted trophy? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure: the excitement is already brewing amongst cricket fans in Pakistan and around the world.
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