Pakistan was the first to win the toss and then decided to field against New Zealand in the deciding match of the three-match One-day international series evenly poised at 1-1in Karachi’s National Stadium in Karachi on Friday.
The hosts have made two changes by bringing in Shan Masood — who was recently appointed vice-captain — and Mohammad Hafsain replacing Imam-ul Haq and Naseem Shah. New Zealand is unchanged.
The Kiwis did start the series in a losing position however, they were able to read the pitch to decide on the first batting position on Wednesday, placing Pakistan in a bind when the hosts were unable to get runs.
The context of the weather conditions makes this one to be awaited by the supporters in Karachi who are expected to show up in large numbers on what is expected to be a cold, wintery weekend with temperatures predicted to drop to single figures.
Pakistan: Fakhar Zaman, Shan Masood, Babar Azam (capt), Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Haris Sohail, Agha Salman, Mohammad Nawaz, Usama Mir, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Mohammad Hasnain, Haris Rauf
New Zealand: Finn Allen, Devon Conway, Kane Williamson (capt), Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (wk), Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Lockie Ferguson