Pakistan’s likely XI for first New Zealand T20I

With just over two weeks remaining in the start of the five-match T20I series between Pakistan and New Zealand, the likely XI of the national side is already being discussed around cricketing circles.

The series will mark the highly anticipated return of pacer Mohammad Amir and all-rounder Imad Wasim in the international cricket.

Amir last featured for Pakistan was back in 2020 against England, while Imad’s last appearance came for the Men in Green was back in 2023 in Rawalpindi against New Zealand.

He will be making his comeback in international cricket against the same side and at the same venue almost after a year.

With them back in the side Pakistan further strengthen their already impressive T20I side.

Reinstated Pakistan white-ball captain Babar Azam is likely to open the batting again but not with Mohammad Rizwan.

Reports suggest, he would be batting with Saim Ayub. The pair was impressive in the Pakistan Super League season nine for Peshawar Zalmi.

Rizwan is expected to back at one-down position, followed by Shadab Khan. Usman Khan or Fakhar Zaman would occupy the fifth spot in the batting order.

Ifthikar Ahmed and Azam Khan will play as finishers.

Imad Wasim, Naseem Shah, former T20I captain Shaheen Shah Afridi and Mohammad Amir will be responsible for Pakistan’s bowling.

Pakistan’s likely XI

Babar Azam (c), Saim Ayub, Mohammad Rizwan, Shadab Khan, Fakhar Zaman/Usman Khan, Azam Khan, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Mohammad Amir.