'Won't underestimate them' - Tim Southee wary against 'dangerous' Pakistan ahead of semi-final

With the conclusion of the Super 12 stage, all eyes are set on the semi-finals of the ICC T20 World Cup 2022. Pakistan and New Zealand are set to lock horns in the first fixture semi-final on Wednesday, November 9 at the Sydney Cricket Ground. 

While New Zealand made into the final four with authurity, such was not the case for the Babar Azam-led side as South Africa, who were in the same group, looked favourites to qualify along with India. All that was required was the Proteas to register a victory against the Netherlands. In an interesting turn of events for Pakistan, the African side ended up losing their fixture in a massive upset thereby paving Pakistna's way to the next stage.

Set to face the Asian side in the forthcoming semi-finals, New Zealand pace spearhead, Tim Southee opined that his side will not take the Men in Green lightly.

"When you get to the top four every side has a chance. We've played a lot against Pakistan in recent times and we know they're a dangerous side. Credit to them, they probably turned up thinking they didn't have much of a chance but they put on another good performance and they'll be a massive threat come the semi-final,” said Southee. "Credit to them, they probably turned up thinking they didn't have much of a chance but they put on another good performance and they'll be a massive threat come the semi-final.”

Semi-final cricket is exciting: Tim Southee

The Blackcaps have been exceptional since their very first fixture against defending champions Australia and have displayed sheer dominance both with the bat and ball. Ahead of the knockout clash, Southee stated that the team would look to maintain the form from the Super 12 stage.

"Semi-final cricket is exciting, it's what you turn up for, to be here in these last couple of games. Hopefully we can continue the way that we've been playing and have another good performance in the semi,” he said. "One of the consistencies of the side is the way we approach things is pretty much the same, no matter what game it is. That's something to come back to and that's something we're very good at."