New Zealand opts to field first against South Africa in Tri-Nation series

New Zealand won the toss and elected to bowl first against South Africa in the second match of the Pakistan Tri-Nation Series at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.

With conditions favoring early swing, New Zealand’s bowlers will aim to capitalize on the morning movement.

South Africa, led by captain Temba Bavuma, has included four debutants in their playing XI—Matthew Breetzke, Mihlali Mpongwana, Senuran Muthusamy, and Eathan Bosch. This marks the first time the Proteas have fielded four debutants in a single ODI. Meanwhile, New Zealand made a single change, bringing in Devon Conway instead of Rachin Ravindra.

Match Progress

South Africa started cautiously, reaching 6/0 in 1.2 overs. Temba Bavuma (3 off 4) and Matthew Breetzke (2 off 4) are at the crease, while Matt Henry and Will O’Rourke have begun proceedings with the ball for New Zealand.

The Lahore pitch is expected to assist fast bowlers early on but is known for being batter-friendly as the game progresses. With the Champions Trophy approaching, New Zealand coach Gary Stead hinted at workload management for the pacers in the coming games.

This is also the first day ODI in Pakistan since 2008, adding historical significance to the encounter. Fans have expressed excitement, with many recalling the nostalgic feel of morning ODIs from the 1990s.

Playing XIs:

New Zealand: Devon Conway, Will Young, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (wk), Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c), Ben Sears, Matt Henry, Will O’Rourke.

South Africa: Temba Bavuma (c), Matthew Breetzke, Jason Smith, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Wiaan Mulder, Mihlali Mpongwana, Senuran Muthusamy, Eathan Bosch, Junior Dala, Lungi Ngidi, Tabraiz Shamsi.