CHRISTCHURCH: Pakistan captain Babar Azam disclosed that the national team would play the tri-nation series in New Zealand with their best combination, saying they tested the bench strength during the home series against England but now only those players who are expected for the World Cup would be included in the playing XI. 

Pakistan are set to face Bangladesh tomorrow in the opening game of the Triangular series.

Babar stated that the tri-series was a great opportunity for the team ahead of the ICC men’s T20 World Cup 2022 as conditions in New Zealand were similar to that of Australia, where the mega event will be hosted.

“This series is very important before the World Cup since the weather and conditions are similar. The weather is cold here just like in Australia. The wickets are bouncy here and we’ll get a bounce in Australia too.” he said at a media talk in Christchurch.

“So it’s a great opportunity to prepare ourselves for the World Cup,” he added.

Speaking of the opposing sides in the triangular series, Pakistan’s captain asserted that no team in the T20I format could be labelled as an easy opponent, especially New Zealand, who were a strong side in their home conditions.

“Black Caps have experience on their side. They have fast bowlers like Southee and Boult and then they have Kane Williamson. So, I think they have a very good combination” he said.

Moreover, Babar said the Pakistan team checked various combinations during the recently concluded T20I series against England but now they would only be playing those players in the team who were the most expected for the World Cup.

“During our last series against England we tried different combinations in batting as well in bowling and checked our bench strength but now we will be going with only those players who are part of our World Cup combination or most expected to play” he maintained.

It is pertinent to mention here that Pakistan will be playing the tri-nation series against Bangladesh and the hosts New Zealand from October 7 to 14. The same squad will then leave for Australia to play the World Cup.

Pakistan will start their World Cup campaign on October 23 with the blockbuster clash against the arch-rivals India at the iconic MCG stadium.

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