Match Details:
- Match: New Zealand vs South Africa, 2nd ODI, Pakistan ODI Tri-Series 2025
- Date & Time: February 10, 2025 – 04:30 AM GMT / 10:00 PM IST / 09:30 AM Local Time
- Venue: Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
Match Preview
New Zealand and South Africa will lock horns in the 2nd ODI of the Pakistan ODI Tri-Series 2025 at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. Both teams will be looking to gain momentum in this crucial fixture, with the series providing vital match practice ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy later in the year.
New Zealand heads into this game with a decent run of form, winning three of their last five matches. Their squad, led by Mitchell Santner, boasts a solid blend of experience and youth, with Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell forming the backbone of their batting lineup.
On the other hand, South Africa will be desperate to bounce back after a string of poor performances, winning just one of their last five ODIs. Temba Bavuma’s side will need key players like Heinrich Klaasen, Rassie van der Dussen, and Kagiso Rabada to step up if they want to challenge the Black Caps in Lahore.
Team Previews
New Zealand
New Zealand’s batting unit revolves around their experienced campaigners, with Kane Williamson anchoring the innings and power hitters like Glenn Phillips and Daryl Mitchell providing firepower in the middle order.
In the bowling department, Matt Henry will lead the pace attack, supported by Ben Sears and Will O’Rourke, while spinners Mitchell Santner and Michael Bracewell will play a crucial role on a subcontinent pitch that could assist slow bowlers.
Predicted Playing XI:
Mitchell Santner (c), Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (wk), Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Matt Henry, Ben Sears, Will O’Rourke.
Key Players to Watch:
- Kane Williamson – The backbone of New Zealand’s batting lineup, capable of playing match-winning knocks.
- Glenn Phillips – A dynamic batter who can change the course of a game in the middle overs.
- Matt Henry – The leader of the pace attack, known for his ability to strike with the new ball.
South Africa
South Africa has struggled with consistency in recent ODIs, but their squad still possesses immense talent. The top order will rely on Temba Bavuma and Matthew Breetzke to lay a solid foundation, while Heinrich Klaasen and Kyle Verreynne are expected to provide stability in the middle order.
Their bowling attack will be led by Keshav Maharaj and Junior Dala, while Wiaan Mulder and Mihlali Pongwana will look to make an impact with the ball.
Predicted Playing XI:
Temba Bavuma (c), Matthew Breetzke, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), Jason Smith, Kyle Verreynne, Senuran Muthusamy, Wiaan Mulder, Mihlali Pongwana, Junior Dala, Keshav Maharaj, Gideon Peters.
Key Players to Watch:
- Heinrich Klaasen – A powerful middle-order batter known for his explosive stroke play.
- Temba Bavuma – The captain will need to lead from the front with a steady innings.
- Keshav Maharaj – His spin bowling could prove vital in subcontinent conditions.
Pitch Report & Weather Conditions
The Gaddafi Stadium pitch generally favors batters, especially under lights, where chasing teams have had success in recent ODIs. Fast bowlers might get some assistance early on, but as the game progresses, spinners are expected to play a key role.
Weather Forecast:
- Temperature: 18-22°C
- Humidity: 60%
- No rain is expected, ensuring a full 50-over contest.
Head-to-Head Record (ODIs)
| Total Matches | New Zealand Wins | South Africa Wins | No Result | Ties |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 72 | 25 | 42 | 5 | 0 |
Recent form favors New Zealand, but South Africa has historically had the upper hand in ODIs between these two teams.
Toss Prediction
The team winning the toss is likely to bowl first, considering the dew factor in the evening. Chasing has been a preferred strategy at Gaddafi Stadium, where the pitch remains true throughout the match.
Match Prediction – Who Will Win?
New Zealand appears to be the stronger side on paper, with a more settled batting order and a well-balanced bowling attack. South Africa will need their senior players to step up and deliver a match-winning performance.
Prediction: New Zealand to win in a closely fought contest.
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