Pakistan poised as favourites
New Zealand looking for redemption as ODIs begin.
Mercurial Pakistan enter the One-Day International (ODI) series against New Zealand as unlikely favourites as both teams look to fine tune before the World Cup. The six-match series which begins today will be the last for both teams before the mega event starts on February 19.
While Pakistan find themselves poised relatively in a stronger position following their 1-0 Test series win, the hosts will be looking for redemption given their recent slump in Bangladesh and India.
For Pakistan all-rounder Abdul Razzaq is the most experienced player in New Zealand with 10 matches and has the ability to win matches single-handedly after his demolition of South Africa in the UAE. Vice-captain of the ODI team Misbahul Haq is confident that his team can pull of a series win before the World Cup
“I am fully prepared and ready to take part in the World Cup. I will certainly not let anyone down,” said Misbah.
Meanwhile, newly-appointed New Zealand coach John Wright knows only a radical change in approach can pull his side out of the losing streak. Wright hinted changes – Brendon McCullum might take guard at number six, breaking his successful combination with Jesse Ryder at the top.
“McCullum and Ryder may not be at the top of the order,” said Wright. “We really need to look at the way we’ve been playing.”
Former South Africa fast-bowler Allan Donald, recently appointed New Zealand’s bowling coach, plans on inspiring the bowlers.
“You can’t expect miracles. I need to find out what we’re lacking, where we can improve,” said Donald. “But I’ve got to try and find a way to inspire.”
Published in The Express Tribune, January 22nd, 2011.
While Pakistan find themselves poised relatively in a stronger position following their 1-0 Test series win, the hosts will be looking for redemption given their recent slump in Bangladesh and India.
For Pakistan all-rounder Abdul Razzaq is the most experienced player in New Zealand with 10 matches and has the ability to win matches single-handedly after his demolition of South Africa in the UAE. Vice-captain of the ODI team Misbahul Haq is confident that his team can pull of a series win before the World Cup
“I am fully prepared and ready to take part in the World Cup. I will certainly not let anyone down,” said Misbah.
Meanwhile, newly-appointed New Zealand coach John Wright knows only a radical change in approach can pull his side out of the losing streak. Wright hinted changes – Brendon McCullum might take guard at number six, breaking his successful combination with Jesse Ryder at the top.
“McCullum and Ryder may not be at the top of the order,” said Wright. “We really need to look at the way we’ve been playing.”
Former South Africa fast-bowler Allan Donald, recently appointed New Zealand’s bowling coach, plans on inspiring the bowlers.
“You can’t expect miracles. I need to find out what we’re lacking, where we can improve,” said Donald. “But I’ve got to try and find a way to inspire.”
Published in The Express Tribune, January 22nd, 2011.