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The ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 is hurtling towards its business end, and for New Zealand, the pressure is immense. Their upcoming clash against Pakistan at Bengaluru’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium isn’t just another game; it’s a must-win battle to halt a worrying slide and keep their semi-final destiny firmly in their own hands.
The Kiwis’ Concerning Freefall
Just a fortnight ago, New Zealand were the tournament’s high-flying darlings. With four commanding wins on the trot, they looked like the most balanced and clinical side, a certain lock for the final four. Then, the script flipped dramatically.
A trio of defeats against India, Australia, and most recently, a thumping from South Africa, has left the Black Caps bruised and vulnerable. Their net run rate has taken a significant hit, and the chasing pack of Pakistan and Afghanistan are now uncomfortably close. The once-impenetrable armour has shown cracks, with the top order wobbling and their disciplined bowling attack being taken apart on batting-friendly Indian pitches.
Pakistan: The Cornered Tigers with Nothing to Lose
Standing in their way is a Pakistan side that has endured a rollercoaster campaign. After a promising start, a string of four consecutive losses derailed their journey, leaving their semi-final aspirations hanging by a thread. But this is the classic “cornered tiger” scenario where Pakistan often produces its best cricket.
With the pressure of expectation somewhat lifted, they can play with the freedom and flair they are famous for. The blistering return to form of Fakhar Zaman, who blasted Bangladesh’s attack apart in their previous game, is a massive boost. On a ground with short boundaries like the Chinnaswamy, a player of his calibre can single-handedly decide the contest. However, Pakistan’s perennial issues remain. Captain Babar Azam’s bat has been uncharacteristically quiet, and their fielding has been subpar, a weakness a professional outfit like New Zealand will look to exploit.
Key Players to Watch in Bengaluru
For New Zealand, their biggest hope lies in the phenomenal form of Rachin Ravindra. The youngster has been the breakout star of the tournament, and his Bengaluru roots will make this a special occasion. He, along with the ever-reliable Daryl Mitchell, will be key to posting a formidable total.
For Pakistan, the focus will be on opener Fakhar Zaman to continue his aggressive onslaught and pace spearhead Shaheen Afridi to find his rhythm with the new ball and deliver crucial early breakthroughs.
A High-Scoring Thriller on the Cards
The battle in Bengaluru promises to be a high-scoring thriller. The flat track and short boundaries mean the bowlers will have virtually no margin for error. It will be a contest of batting firepower: New Zealand’s calculated aggression versus Pakistan’s mercurial brilliance.
On paper, the Kiwis are a more cohesive unit with more to play for. But as New Zealand look to stay in the semi-final hunt, they face a Pakistan team that has nothing to lose and a point to prove. Saturday is set for a blockbuster.
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