Key takeaways ahead of Pakistan's tri-series final against New Zealand

Pakistan faces New Zealand in tri-series final, aiming to fix key areas and win before the Champions Trophy.

Pakistan faces New Zealand in the tri-series final after a mixed campaign, including a convincing win against South Africa and a heavy defeat to the Black Caps.

With a chance to claim silverware before the Champions Trophy, Babar Azam’s side must address key concerns and build on their strengths.

Here are the major takeaways ahead of the final:

1. Death bowling needs urgent attention:

Pakistan’s bowling attack, particularly at the death, has been a concern.

In their first match against New Zealand, they allowed 98 runs in the last six overs, with Glenn Phillips exploiting gaps with brutal efficiency.

Even in their win against South Africa, they conceded 206 runs from their fast bowlers.

Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah must find ways to execute their yorkers better, and Pakistan may consider using spin late in the innings to disrupt New Zealand’s rhythm.

2. Fakhar Zaman’s form is encouraging but needs support:

Fakhar Zaman has been Pakistan’s most aggressive top-order batter, scoring 84 off 69 against New Zealand and providing a strong start against South Africa.

However, with Babar Azam struggling at the top—falling cheaply in both games—Pakistan must decide if Babar should continue opening or revert to his usual No. 3 position.

The team needs a solid powerplay to put pressure on New Zealand’s bowlers early.

3. Middle-order reliability: Rizwan and Salman Agha key to success:

Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Agha showcased their match-winning ability against South Africa, putting together a record 260-run stand in Pakistan’s highest successful ODI chase.

Their ability to rotate strike and accelerate when needed will be crucial in countering New Zealand’s disciplined attack.

Pakistan must ensure they don’t expose their lower order too soon, especially given their struggles in the loss to New Zealand.

4. Pakistan must find a reliable third seamer:

With Haris Rauf unavailable, Pakistan's pace attack is slightly weakened.

Hasan Ali and Mohammad Wasim Jr. are possible options to provide middle-overs control and late-over wickets.

Another approach could be relying more on all-rounders like Faheem Ashraf to contribute both with the ball and lower down the order.

Finding the right combination will be crucial in keeping New Zealand’s batters in check.

5. Spin strategy must be optimized:

New Zealand’s batters have been comfortable against Pakistan’s spinners, with Mitchell and Phillips taking down Salman Agha and Khushdil Shah in Lahore.

Pakistan must be smarter with their spin usage—perhaps bringing Abrar Ahmed in earlier or using Imad Wasim in tandem with seamers to break partnerships.

Adapting their approach will be key to keeping New Zealand’s power hitters in check.

Final thoughts

Pakistan has shown flashes of brilliance in this series but will need a complete performance to beat New Zealand in the final. Fixing their death bowling, supporting Fakhar’s starts, ensuring middle-order stability, and managing their pace attack without Haris Rauf could make the difference in securing the title.