Pakistan’s national cricket team has begun preparations for their highly anticipated tour of New Zealand, where the new-look squad is expected to face a stern test in challenging conditions. With the series scheduled to feature limited-overs formats only, the team management is focused on fine-tuning strategies and addressing key concerns ahead of the trip.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has set up a rigorous training camp for the selected players at the Lahore City Cricket Association ground in Lahore. In the first images shared by the PCB, the players were seen being put through their paces as they prepare for the five T20Is and three ODIs starting March 16. The images also feature some newcomers, whom Pakistan hopes can usher in a new era of success following a string of disappointments.
Pakistan’s recent failures in ICC tournaments loom over these new-look teams. Their latest setback in the Champions Trophy has attracted harsh criticism from fans and pundits alike but the upcoming tour of New Zealand offers Pakistan an opportunity to regain the trust that has been lost.
The T20I squad will be under even more scrutiny following yet another leadership change. The management will be closely monitoring the top performers as they aim to build a contending side for the 2025 Asia Cup, which will be played in the T20 format, as well as the 2026 T20I World Cup.
| Date | Match | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| Mar 16, Sun | New Zealand vs Pakistan, 1st T20I | Hagley Oval, Christchurch |
| Mar 18, Tue | New Zealand vs Pakistan, 2nd T20I | University Oval, Dunedin |
| Mar 21, Fri | New Zealand vs Pakistan, 3rd T20I | Eden Park, Auckland |
| Mar 23, Sun | New Zealand vs Pakistan, 4th T20I | Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui |
| Mar 26, Wed | New Zealand vs Pakistan, 5th T20I | Sky Stadium, Wellington |
| Mar 29, Sat | New Zealand vs Pakistan, 1st ODI | McLean Park, Napier |
| Apr 02, Wed | New Zealand vs Pakistan, 2nd ODI | Seddon Park, Hamilton |
| Apr 05, Sat | New Zealand vs Pakistan, 3rd ODI | Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui |