T20 World Cup 2022: Semi-Final 1, NZ vs PAK Match Prediction – Who win today’s T20 World Cup match between NZ vs PAK?

New Zealand (NZ) will be facing Pakistan (PAK) in the first semifinal of the ICC T20 World Cup 2022 at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Wednesday, November 9. The Kiwis showcased some extraordinary performances in the Super 12 to finish as the table-toppers and their only defeat came against England.

Even though the Kiwis are in outstanding form, they have to worry about their dismal record against Pakistan in the ICC tournament knockouts having lost in the semis of the 1992 as well as 1999 World Cups and the T20 World Cup 2007 respectively. The upcoming clash now presents the Blackcaps with a perfect opportunity to rewrite history and seal a second straight T20 World Cup final berth.

Pakistan, on the other hand, were well on the verge of taking the exit door early after losing their first two games against arch-rivals India and Zimbabwe. However, impressive wins over South Africa, and, Bangladesh earned them a semis berth at the last minute.

The unpredictability of Pakistan team is what makes them a dangerous side in the knockouts and New Zealand must be well-prepared to face them in this key clash at the SCG.

Match Details:

New Zealand vs Pakistan, Semi-Final 1, T20 World Cup 2022

Venue: Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney

Date & Time: November 9, 01:30 PM IST

Telecast & Live Streaming: Star Sports and Disney+Hotstar

Pitch Report:

The surface at the SCG is expected to be a batting-friendly one without the hard pace and bounce compared to the other pitches in Australia. With no chances of dew throughout the game and a chances of slight rain, the captain winning the toss will be looking to bowl first.

Probable Playing XIs for NZ vs PAK

New Zealand:

Finn Allen, Devon Conway (wk), Kane Williamson (C), Glenn Phillips, James Neesham, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Lockie Ferguson and Trent Boult.

Pakistan:

Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Babar Azam (C), Mohammad Haris, Shan Masood, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Nawaz, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf and Shaheen Afridi.

Probable Top Performers from NZ vs PAK

Probable best batter: Glenn Phillips

Glenn Phillips has been their lifeline in the batting department. The middle-order sensation scored a match-winning century against Sri Lanka when Kiwis had lost their top-order with hardly anything on the board and followed it up with a blistering 62 runs from 36 balls against England. He would be a great threat for the Pakistani bowlers in the middle and death overs.

Probable best bowler: Shadab Khan

Shahdab Khan has been Pakistan’s most successful bowler in this competition so far. The vice-captain consistently made a mark in the wickets column throughout the Super 12 stage. Shadab has registered 10 scalps to his name from five matches at an economy of 6.22 averaging 11.20. The New Zealanders must handle him with caution in the semifinal.

Today’s Match Prediction: New Zealand to win the match

Also Check: Dream11 Team Prediction for NZ vs PAK

Disclaimer: This prediction is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While making your prediction, consider the points mentioned, and make your own decision.