Pakistan opening batsman Usman Khan has been excluded from the second ODI against New Zealand following a hamstring injury he picked while playing in the first match of the series at Napier's McLean Park on Friday. The 29-year-old, who played his first ODI in the same game, injured his hamstring while fielding.

An MRI scan conducted post-match confirmed a low-grade tear, ruling him out of the important second ODI, which will be played on Wednesday, April 2, at Seddon Park, Hamilton.

A Promising Debut Cut Short
Usman was impressive in his first outing in ODIs, with a rapid-fire 39 off 33 balls at the top of the order. He was only added to Pakistan's side for this series late on, having got his chance after an impressive T20I series against New Zealand. His promising beginning has been cut short by this premature injury.

ALSO SEE: New Zealand vs Pakistan 2nd ODI: Predicted Playing 11 & Match Details

Series Overview
New Zealand is currently leading the three-match series 1-0, following a dominant 73-run win in the first ODI. The hosts piled up a mammoth total of 344/9, with a blistering century by Mark Chapman. Even a gritty 78 off 83 balls by Pakistan captain Babar Azam could not save the day for the visitors, who were bowled out for 271 in 44.1 overs.

Remaining Fixtures
With Usman Khan ruled out, Pakistan has a selection headache as they approach the second ODI. The final of the series is scheduled for Saturday, April 5, at Bay Oval.

The injury to Usman Khan is the latest setback for Pakistan as they try to come back and keep the series alive against a strong New Zealand team.

The ODI series between Pakistan and New Zealand has so far consisted of one match, with the series 1–0 in favor of New Zealand. The second encounter is scheduled for Seddon Park in Hamilton. With the momentum after their victory in the first ODI, the hosts will seek to clinch the series, while Pakistan hope to recover and keep the series alive.

Match Details – 2nd ODI

1st ODI Recap

New Zealand began the series on a high note with a convincing 73-run victory. Given to bat first, the hosts put up a huge score of 344/9, with a scintillating 132 from Mark Chapman and a steady 76 from Daryl Mitchell.

In reply, Pakistan scored 271 before being bowled out in the 45th over. Babar Azam scored the highest with 78, while Salman Agha contributed a 58-ball 58. Nathan Smith was the star of the bowling attack, taking 4 wickets, while Jacob Duffy took 2.

Predicted Playing XI – New Zealand

Bench: Nick Kelly, Mohammad Abbas, Rhys Mariu

Predicted Playing XI – Pakistan

Bench: Faheem Ashraf, Irfan Khan Niazi, Akif Javed, Sufiyan Muqeem

ALSO SEE: RCB chants take over DC vs SRH Match

What to Watch

The second ODI promises several key mini-battles. New Zealand’s young squad has shown maturity and composure, but can they maintain consistency to close out the series? Pakistan will be hoping that their experienced top order, led by Babar and Rizwan, can guide them to a comeback. The middle overs will be crucial, particularly the contest between Pakistan’s spinners and New Zealand’s left-handers like Chapman and Bracewell.

Venue Watch – Seddon Park, Hamilton

Seddon Park generally has a good batting wicket with true bounce and quick outfields that reward stroke play. Spinners may come into the picture towards the later part of the day as the wicket deteriorates. Historically, run chases have been a preferred choice at this ground, and therefore, the toss may again be crucial.

What to Expect

With New Zealand replete with confidence and Pakistan desperate to hit back, the second ODI is going to be a thrilling contest. The Kiwis will want to wrap up the series at the earliest opportunity, while Pakistan possesses the arsenal to hit back. Hamilton will be the stage where all attention will be concentrated as the series gathers momentum.

Will Pakistan discover their rhythm and attract level of attraction, or will New Zealand keep extending their winning streak? The answers lie in the second ODI encounter.

In his absence, Michael Bracewell continues with the captaincy after leading the team in the T20I series. In his stead, Henry Nicholls has been brought in, while Mitch Hay will assume the role of the new wicketkeeper. 

Also Read: Watch: Ishan Kishan and Umpire Anil Chaudhary making fun of Mohammad Rizwan

Latham was set to lead New Zealand with Qd the IPL Santner; however, he suffered an injury earlier this week that did not allow him to participate. Latham did get x-rays to assess the damage. After the first ODI in Napier, Will Young steps out of the squad to support his wife as they prepare to welcome their first child. He is replaced by rhythmic 23-year-old batter Rhys Mariu, who has a first-class career average of 61.73.

Michael Bracewell will lead New Zealand in the ODI series against Pakistan, with Tom Latham ruled out after suffering a fractured hand during training; Henry Nicholls has been called up.

More details: https://t.co/xOG4E0k833 #NZvPAK pic.twitter.com/6nDXzA42yH

— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) March 27, 2025

Also Read: IPL 2025: Another security breach as fan falls at Riyan Parag’s feet during RR vs KKR

Head coach of New Zealand, Garry Stead, spoke of the changes to the squad, admitting they had several players unavailable, and it did indeed pose a challenge; however, it did create opportunities as well. He also honored two players coming into the squad for their performance and remained confident in Bracwell's leadership. “Disappointing as it is losing Tom is, Michael did an excellent job leading the T20I series, and I am pleased to see the shape Michael's leadership of the team is in,” Stead responded. He also extended best wishes to Young and his wife, Elise.

The squad had already included uncapped players Muhammad Abbas and Nick Kelly, while Kane Williamson opted out of the series. New Zealand will now rely on a mix of experience and fresh talent as they take on Pakistan.

The finale of the T20I series between Pakistan and New Zealand is here. With New Zealand's lead standing at 3-1, the last match presents Pakistan with the opportunity to limit the series margin, while New Zealand is looking to intensify its grip on the series. The 5th T20I will take place at the infamous Sky Stadium in Wellington, which is infamous for its lively pitch and avid support from the crowd.

Match Details

Pakistan Probable Playing XI

Pakistan's combination of experienced campaigners and new players will be eager to finish the series on a positive note. Skipper Salman Agha will try to motivate his men, while pace pair Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf will try to test the Kiwi batsmen.

New Zealand Probable Playing XI

ALSO SEE: India’s Largest Cricket Stadium Approved in Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh

New Zealand, under captain Michael Bracewell, has provided depth and steadiness throughout the series. New Zealand's opening three of Finn Allen, Tim Seifert, and Mark Chapman have worked tirelessly to ensure competitive scores are posted, with the bowling lineup, led by Jacob Duffy, keeping the Pakistani batsmen under wraps.

What to Expect

Sky Stadium's pitch has traditionally been hospitable to both the batsmen and bowlers, with the prospect of an interesting contest. Since the series is already decided, both sides could try out their combinations, giving fringe players chances to prove themselves. Spectators can expect a rollercoaster encounter as Pakistan looks for redemption and New Zealand attempts to end the series on a high note.

The fourth T20I series game between Pakistan and New Zealand will be played at the scenic Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui. The series, with New Zealand currently 2-1 up, will see Pakistan aiming to level the series and arrange an exciting climax.

Match Details

Pakistan Probable Playing XI

There is a combination of veterans and rookies in Pakistan's team. Salman Agha is the captain of the side, while Mohammad Haris handles the wicketkeeping duties. Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf head the speed bowling, to tackle the Kiwi batsmen at speed and precision.

ALSO SEE: IPL 2025 Live Streaming Details & Schedule: Where and How to Watch Worldwide

New Zealand Probable Playing XI

Michael Bracewell leads the New Zealand team. Opening batsmen Tim Seifert and Finn Allen offer solidity at the batting end with their aggressive style of play. Ish Sodhi and Jacob Duffy lead a bowling attack with experience and youth.

With both sides having a combination of old warhorses and new faces, the 4th T20I is going to be an interesting match. Will New Zealand seal the series, or will Pakistan stage a comeback to make the series level? Keep watching to know!

Pakistan did what only Pakistan can surprise the world with brilliance at the very moment when you least expect it. After two disappointing showings in the first two T20Is of their five-match series against New Zealand, the visitors came back stunningly on Friday in Auckland, chasing down a record 205 in 16 overs to keep the series alive.

The overnight hero was 22-year-old Hasan Nawaz, who appeared in his third T20 International. Having scored ducks in his initial two games, the young batsman made a statement with his knock, hammering 105 from 45 deliveries to guide Pakistan's record-breaking chase. He achieved his hundred in a mere 44 deliveries, smashing Babar Azam's record for the quickest T20I hundred by a Pakistani batsman earlier 49 balls against South Africa in 2021.

- He's 22 Year old.
- He's playing debut series.
- Vs New Zealand in NZ.
- Chasing 205 runs.
- Smashed fastest T20I Hundred for PAK.
- He scored 105*(45).

HASAN NAWAZ - A SPECIAL TALENT FOR PAKISTAN. ⭐ pic.twitter.com/Lefb94GhxG

— Tanuj Singh (@ImTanujSingh) March 21, 2025

ALSO SEE: Experts Reveal Their Picks for IPL 2025’s Top Run-Scorer

Pakistan reached the target with nine wickets in hand, producing one of their most comprehensive performances in recent times. Skipper Salman Ali Agha played the ideal supporting role, staying unbeaten on 51 off 31 balls.

The 205 chase is now Pakistan's second-highest successful T20I run chase and the joint-highest overseas an assertive reaction from a side under pressure following consecutive losses.

With the series currently standing at 2-1 in favor of New Zealand, Pakistan will hope that this nail-biting victory is the catalyst they need to bring the tide around.

Match Details

The battle between New Zealand and Pakistan will be an entertaining match, as both teams will feature a strong side. Let us see the likely playing XIs of both teams.

Pakistan Probable Playing XI:

Pakistan's team has a mix of experience and youth, with Salman Agha as the captain. Mohammad Haris will be taking up wicketkeeping responsibilities, while Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf will lead the bowling attack.

ALSO SEE: Zaheer Khan on MS Dhoni's Fan Following: "Yellow Will Dominate Every Stadium"

New Zealand Probable Playing XI:

Michael Bracewell is captaining a similarly balanced team in New Zealand as well. A sound batting setup headed by finisher-style hitters like Finn Allen and Tim Seifert can be expected from it. Variety and depth are promised in the bowling ranks headed by Ish Sodhi and Jacob Duffy.

With both sides having a combination of seasoned and rising stars, this game promises to be an exciting affair. Pakistan's pace bowling prowess will be tested against New Zealand's powerful batting lineup, and it will be an interesting battle between bat and ball.

During a recent game, Saud Shakeel executed an unbelievable no-look shot that took everyone by surprise his opponent, Naseem Shah included. The shot was so fine that even Naseem, who is quite competitive, could not resist giving a round of applause.

The moment soon went viral, with fans hailing Shakeel's technique and confidence. A no-look shot is a shot that needs incredible skill, timing, and faith in one's capability, and Shakeel pulled it off perfectly. Naseem's response made the moment even more endearing, reflecting the real sportsman spirit.

ALSO SEE: Micheal Clarke Admits Jasprit Bumrah Is An Absolute Freak

Saud Shakeel played a remarkable No look shot that even impressed his Opponent Naseem Shah, who was seen clapping for him#NationalT20 #PakistanCricket pic.twitter.com/4nat0GNOuZ

— Au Rangzab Younis (@SardarAurangzab) March 18, 2025

Cricket enthusiasts adore such moments of magic, and this one will be etched in memory as an exhibition of talent and respect between two of the best players.

Faisalabad's Iqbal Stadium will host an international game for the first time in 17 years. The city's old stadium will host May 2025 white-ball series between Pakistan and Bangladesh. It is a great moment for Faisalabad because international cricket was not being organized there for several years.

The match will be One Day International - Wikipedia and T20 between Pakistan and Bangladesh and will be held in three cities, Faisalabad, Lahore, and Multan. The competitions will feature the best of both teams with heart-stopping cricketing action for the spectators.

Faisalabad's Iqbal Stadium is famous for its cricket-loving supporters and will have an electric feel when it will host the eagerly awaited international game. The stadium has hosted various domestic games previously, but it had been nearly a decade since an international-grade game was planned there last in 2008. Now after nearly two decades, the stadium gates will once again open up for international cricketers and spectators.

ALSO READ: IPL 2025: Travel Distance for Each Team Revealed

Lahore and Multan will be equally crucial centers in this series. Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium and Multan's Multan Cricket Stadium are among the best grounds of Pakistan, and they have hosted more than enough wonderful cricket matches already. The white-ball series will be a grand spectacle for all three cities, as the crowd will get to see their home teams play at home.

This Bangladesh-Pakistan tournament will be significant for both sides as they build momentum for the future international tournaments. It is also the perfect time for cricket fans in these cities to witness good cricket firsthand.

Overall, this is a big win for cricket fans in Multan, Lahore, and Faisalabad, and something to look forward to for the sport of cricket in Pakistan.

Cricket is a game that is full of surprises, and one of the weirdest dismissals ever has taken place in National T20. Bilal Irshad, the batter whose misfortunes have recently captured headlines, fell for a dismissal that left fans and commentators alike flabbergasted. His unprecedented hit-wicket dismissal went viral and is one of the most talked-about incidents from the tournament.

What Happened?

Bilal Irshad was at the crease, trying to build his innings when the moment of unadulterated bad luck happened. As he tried for a shot, his own bat accidentally hit the stumps and knocked the bails off. The dismissal was so out of the ordinary that even the bowler was taken aback. 

Such a turn of events made the players on the field chuckle whereas the fans following the match had trouble believing their eyes. 

The Hit-Wicket Rule Explained If a batter, after the ball has been bowled, accidentally breaks their own stumps with the end of their bat, body or thing while playing a shot or heading off for a run, they are out hit-wicket. It's not a run-out everybody sees on every day, but it does provide for some of the funniest moments in the history of the game.

#NationalT20 at it's very best😂Never seen a batter getting hit-wicket like this.. pic.twitter.com/um7v3EzZTH

— Abdul Wasay (@andy_abdulwasay) March 17, 2025

Also Read: Watch: MS Dhoni’s ‘Animal’ Look Stuns Fans Ahead of IPL 2025

The video of Bilal Irshad getting out hit-wicket went viral and cricket fans found it amusing in no time. The posting sharing the clip tweeted, “Never seen a batter be hit-wicket like this..”. Seems like a lot of people agree with the same.”Fans couldn’t stop laughing at this fan-made clip of Bilal Irshad’s hit-wicket moment.

Someone tweeted, “Bilal Irshad just created the funniest hit-wicket moment in cricket history.” Yet another one said, “This wicket was awesome. Even the bowler deserves an assist for this!” Jokes and memes took over the cricket forums making this one of the most popular dismissals in a long time.

Famous Hit Wicket Dismissals in Cricket 

Bilal Irshad now becomes the latest addition to a select group of players to be dismissed in this freakish manner. The most notable personalities to be dismissed hit-wicket include:

Inzamam-ul-Haq — His bizarre footwork led to a couple of hit-wicket dismissals.

Steve Smith (Ashes 2019) – An unpredicted hit-wicket in a high-stakes Test match.

Misbah-ul-Haq – Used to get out hit-wicket while going for an unorthodox stroke.

Bilal Irshad’s moment joins these celebrated moments