Pakistan will host New Zealand in the final of the Tri-Nations Cricket Series. Both sides beat the Proteas to book their final spots.
Pakistan and New Zealand will face off on Friday in the final of the Tri-Nations One-Day International (ODI) Series in Karachi after both sides beat South Africa. New Zealand won when they faced Pakistan earlier in the tournament. However, Pakistan will once again have a home advantage on their side for the final.
Interestingly, the Tri-Nations Series final is, in effect, a prelude to the ICC Champions Trophy. New Zealand and Pakistan are both in Group A and will clash again in Karachi on 19 February. Pakistan will be co-hosting the Champions Trophy with the United Arab Emirates.
Past Tri-Nations Series Results
The tournament began with New Zealand beating Pakistan by 78 runs. Glenn Phillips scored 106* as New Zealand posted 330-6 and then bowled Pakistan out for 252 with 2.1 overs remaining.
New Zealand then faced South Africa and the Proteas got off to a strong start with an impressive total of 304-6 as Matthew Breetzke scored 150. However, New Zealand chased it down with 1.2 overs and six wickets to spare.
Pakistan faced South Africa on Wednesday for a spot in the final. Once again, the Proteas were in strong form with the bat, scoring 352-5. However, Pakistan’s highest-ever successful run chase featured superb knocks from Salman Ali Agha (134) and Mohammad Rizwan (122*) as the hosts sent the Proteas packing.
Easybet Odds
Despite losing to New Zealand in their previous head-to-head clash, Pakistan (1.70) are favourites for this fixture on account of home advantage. New Zealand (2.10) are rated as slight underdogs.
There are odds available on Mohammad Rizwan (6.25) following up his century against the Proteas with yet another ton. If past games are anything to go by, fans and online sports betting enthusiasts should be ready in case the score surpasses what the world of cricket is usually accustomed to in the 50-over game.
