In the cricketing world, discussions surrounding match-fixing often bring Pakistan’s name to the forefront due to past incidents involving some of its prominent cricketers. However, as Pakistan gears up to face New Zealand in a T20 series ahead of the 2024 World Cup, speculation is rife about the potential outcome of the matches.
According to insiders within Pakistan’s gambling community, there is a strong belief that New Zealand will suffer defeat in the upcoming series against Pakistan. Many individuals placing bets on platforms like OneXBat have indicated that the pitches at Rawalpindi and Lahore grounds have been strategically prepared to favor the Pakistani team, making it challenging for New Zealand to emerge victorious.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecasted rain during the series, particularly in Rawalpindi
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While the host country has the authority to determine pitch conditions, concerns have been raised about the fairness of such practices. It’s not uncommon for pitch manipulation to occur, as seen in past instances in countries like India. Therefore, there is a call for stringent monitoring by the Pakistan Cricket Board and the International Cricket Council (ICC) to prevent any potential malpractices.
Despite the possibility of match-fixing, certain factors seemingly tilt the odds in Pakistan’s favor. The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecasted rain during the series, particularly in Rawalpindi, which could disrupt gameplay and potentially benefit the home team. Additionally, both pitches are expected to be slow, making it difficult for batsmen to score big runs.
While these speculations raise concerns about the integrity of the sport, they also underscore the need for vigilant oversight and transparency in cricketing events. As Pakistan and New Zealand prepare to clash on the field, all eyes will be on the series outcome, with hopes for fair play and sporting excellence prevailing above all else.
Fixtures:
- 18 April – 1st T20I, Rawalpindi
- 20 April – 2nd T20I, Rawalpindi
- 21 April – 3rd T20I, Rawalpindi
- 25 April – 4th T20I, Lahore
- 27 April – 5th T20I, Lahore
Team Pakistan: Babar Azam (c), Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Rizwan, Mohammad Amir, Irfan Niazi, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Afridi, Usman Khan, Zaman Khan, Usama Mir.
Team New Zealand: Michael Bracewell (c), Tom Blundell, Mark Chapman, Josh Clarkson, Jacob Duffy, Dean Foxcroft, Ben Lister, Cole McConchie, Zack Fowlkes, Jimmy Neesham, Will O’Rourke, Tim Robinson, Ben Sears, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi.
