New Zealand have a chance to close out the series if they win match three of five after a strong start.
Pakistan haven’t been a million miles away from clicking, but they desperately need to start getting some results.
New Zealand have won both the T20Is that have been played at Dunedin’s University Oval.
To Win Match
New Zealand 57/100 | Tie 25/1 | Pakistan 29/20
Finn Allen finally repaid the faith that has been shown in him while Tim Seifert has been sidelined.
Mitchell Santner showed his value as he returned from an illness that kept him out of the series opener and he is a player who contributes more than many realise.
Daryl Mitchell has been the man to watch for New Zealand in the white ball formats and that continues even with Kane Williamson and Devon Conway back in the fold.
Adam Milne’s strike-bowling qualities put him among the best in the world, especially when the ball is new.
Pakistan can’t seem to configure their top four to get the best out of their star men.
While Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan have played good knocks this series they haven’t been match-turning innings. Fakhar Zaman has also pitched in and new face Saim Ayub also looks a special talent.
Abbas Afridi has proven to have a knack for getting a crucial wicket but Pakistan still need to tighten up in the field to back up their bowlers. Skipper Shaheen Afridi cut a frustrated figure with ball in hand during the second T20I.
After taking three wickets last time out, Haris Rauf could be the Pakistan bowler New Zealand looks to see off rather than take on.
Verdict: New Zealand 57/100
New Zealand have Pakistan on the ropes and should finish this off.
