NZ vs PAK Preview: Unpredictable Pakistan face Kiwi challenge to stay in contention

The action will move to the final stages in the ongoing ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 as New Zealand and Pakistan will take on each other in Match 35 on Saturday, November 04 at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru. Pakistan are coming into the game having finally ended their four-match losing streak by beating Bangladesh by seven wickets. They are ranked on the fifth spot on the points table with three wins from seven matches having six points to their name.

On the other hand, New Zealand are coming into the game on the back of three consecutive losses – against India, Australia and South Africa. The Tom Latham-led side started their campaign with four consecutive wins but lost their way after that and now finds itself in a precarious situation. They are ranked on the fourth spot with four wins from seven matches having eight points to their name.

The upcoming fixture is extremely crucial for Pakistan as a loss will mostly end their World Cup campaign while New Zealand will also look to win the upcoming fixture to keep their qualification hopes in their hands.

Pitch Report

The M. Chinnaswamy stadium in Bengaluru has been a high-scoring ground traditionally. Out of the last five matches played at the venue, three have been won by teams batting first. The average first innings total has been in the last five games has been 305 while the highest target chased in the history of the venue has been 328. The captain winning the toss is likely to bat first to make the most of the good batting conditions on offer.

Probable Playing XI