Pakistan have only won 12 out of 34 ODI matches they have played in New Zealand. Last time they toured New Zealand they lost the series 4-1 in 2004. Last time they played an ODI series against New Zealand they lost 2-1 in UAE November 2009. They have not won an ODI series in New Zealand since 1994. New Zealand are not be underestimated, but in all fairness Pakistan should definitely win this ODI series rather comfortably.
Overall Pakistan have won 48 out of 82 ODI encounters against the Kiwis.
Younis Khan has never played an ODI in New Zealand!
Team announced for 1st ODI at Basin Reserve. 6 AM PST and 1 AM GMT: Kamran Akmal, Mohammad Hafeez, Younis Khan, Asad Shafiq, Misbah ul Haq, Umer Akmal, Shahid Afridi, Abdul Razzaq, Abdur Rehman, Sohail Tanvir, Shoaib Akhtar
Gul is rightfully being rested as is Wahab.It's perfectly reasonable as they deserve a rest to re-charge their batteries. Plus gives us an opportunity to tinker with the line up and look at other options available too. Look at the depth in the batting. Spin will be a key factor too. Definitely a bat first strategy should be in mind.
Expectations by Maaz :-
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2)Afridi learns not to give irresponsible statements in the press and attack his own players.
3)Spin attack performs well and thrives.
4)Batting line up posts top scores and learns how to build and construct a top brand total.
5)Misbah proves his doubters comprehensively wrong and establishes his presence and underappreciated usefulness in the ODI Team.
6) Umar Akmal regains his form, popularity and hype following some expressive adorable performances.
7) The team builds invaluable momentum, perfects their line up and finds the winning combinations and strategies going into the all important World Cup.