Pakistan’s interim head coach Aqib Javed during media interaction ahead of the third T20I against New Zealand in Auckland on March 20, 2025. – PCB
Pakistan Looks to Bounce Back Amid Growing Pressure
With New Zealand leading the five-match T20I series 2-0, Pakistan finds itself in a must-win situation heading into the third T20I in Auckland. Interim head coach Aqib Javed has suggested that changes in the playing XI could be on the cards as the team looks to regain momentum.
While Pakistan is now undergoing a rebuilding period, Javed stressed that the team’s ultimate objective is to prepare a competitive side for the Asia Cup and T20 World Cup. He also noted that Pakistan has struggled to adjust to New Zealand’s conditions.
“Going through a rebuilding phase doesn’t mean we are not aiming to win. The Pakistan team has the full potential to make a comeback and win the series.”
— Aqib Javed
With fans growing restless after consecutive defeats, can Pakistan turn the tide in the crucial third match?
Pakistan’s Adjustments to Tactics: Anticipated Changes of One or Two
It is still possible that Aqib Javed will make changes to the playing eleven for the next game. Even for players without much experience, the coach could feel the difficulties of playing in New Zealand.
He stressed the importance of the squad being able to adjust fast in order to stay in the series. The emphasis may move to fortifying the top order, because Pakistan’s batting meltdown in the opening two matches cost them.
“There might be one or two changes in the third T20.” says Aqib Javed
Pakistan is in dire need of a game-changer, but they are battling for consistency. A shift in strategy could be just what the squad needs.
A Plea for Patience from Aqib Javed: “We Know Fans Are Upset”
Javed has asked fans to be patient, saying that it takes time to establish a great squad, in response to the fans’ frustration with the series losses.
🔸 A lot of people are starting to worry about Pakistan’s T20I performance because of how it has been acting in the past few months.
🔸 While expressing his displeasure, the coach reassured the crowd that cricket development is a slow process.
“We lost two matches, and people are upset. Everyone wants to win all the time—we do too, but sometimes it takes longer.”
— Aqib Javed
Pakistan has a chance to make up with their fans and win back their trust with two games remaining.
Pakistan Requires a Tailored T20 System
T20 cricket has progressed, Javed said, and Pakistan has to have specialised squads like other leading cricketing nations.
🔹 The days of a single squad across all formats are long gone, with teams building separate 🔹 Teams now create distinct lineups for different forms of cricket, such as Tests, One-Day Internationals, and T20 Internationals.
🔹 Pakistan is presently assembling a T20 squad, with players that excel at scoring runs and can adjust to the shorter format being selected.
“The team that dominated T20s was formed two years ago, but cricket has changed, and T20 teams are now built separately.”
— Aqib Javed
Pakistan’s transition into a modern T20 setup is still a work in progress, but the next few months will be critical in shaping a competitive unit.
The Greater Picture: Pakistan in the Asia Cup and T20 World Cup
Javed pointed out that the Asia Cup and Twenty20 World Cup are still Pakistan’s top priorities, notwithstanding how crucial it is to win the New Zealand series.
✔️ It is expected that the next Asia Cup in India will feature highly scoring games.
✔️ Pakistan has to assemble a team capable of regularly scoring high numbers.
✔️ Javed underlined that Pakistan’s T20 strategy has to be improved, particularly considering conditions like Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand.
“Both the Asia Cup and the T20 World Cup in India are major events, and high scores are common on Asian pitches.”
— Aqib Javed
Pakistan must find the right combination before these crucial tournaments if they wish to compete at the highest level.
Under Pressure: Javed silently expects Shaheen Afridi’s Improvements
Pakistan’s bowling has drawn criticism, particularly in reference to Shaheen Afridi’s performance.
🔹 In particular, Javed cautioned Shaheen he had to work if he wanted to become a top bowler.
🔹 At New Zealand’s short grounds, Shaheen Afridi has struggled, failing to take early wickets and throwing up runs.
“A bowler conceding four sixes is not a big deal, but a fast bowler must keep improving. Shaheen Shah Afridi also needs to elevate his game.”
— Aqib Javed
With Pakistan’s bowling attack failing to contain New Zealand’s aggressive batsmen, Afridi will need to step up his game in the remaining matches.
Pakistan’s Expected XI for the Third T20I
With changes expected, here’s a possible lineup for Pakistan’s must-win match:
01. Mohammad Haris
02. Saim Ayub
03. Babar Azam (if included)
04. Salman Ali Agha (C)
05. Iftikhar Ahmed
06. Shadab Khan
07. Mohammad Nawaz
08. Haris Rauf
09. Shaheen Afridi
10. Naseem Shah
11. Abrar Ahmed
Pakistan needs early breakthroughs with the ball and a solid start with the bat to stay alive in the series.
Conclusive Results: Can Pakistan make a comeback from this far in the series?
Pakistan’s T20I team has to perform well under duress as the series draws to a close.
❌ During the first two games, batting collapses have been a significant problem.
❌ Competitive totals have not been successfully defended by the bowlers.
✔️ Making tactical adjustments to the starting lineup could provide them a much-needed boost.
✔️ Pakistan could gain momentum if they win the third T20l.
The next games against fresh Zealand are essential for Pakistan to test fresh combinations and gain confidence in order to get ready for the Asia Cup and T20 World Cup.
Will New Zealand put on another strong show to win the series, or will Pakistan make a comeback?
FAQs
1. Why is Aqib Javed altering Pakistan’s starting lineup?
Javed has alluded to one or two adjustments to bolster Pakistan’s team and increase their chances in the crucial game.
2. Apart from the New Zealand series, what is Pakistan’s primary focus?
Pakistan is getting ready for the Asia Cup and T20 World Cup, making sure their team is competitive for important competitions.
3. How has Shaheen Afridi fared thus far in the series?
Afridi has struggled in the opening two games, giving up multiple boundaries and failing to grab early wickets.
4. What lineup changes are anticipated for Pakistan in the third T20I?
Potential batting and bowling changes could include alterations to the middle order or opening pair.
