Key Highlights:
Pakistan’s bowling spearhead Naseem Shah will have a key role to play in the second ODI against New Zealand in Hamilton after the home side suffered a major blow with Mark Chapman ruled out due to a hamstring injury. As New Zealand reshuffle their squad with Tim Seifert called up, the momentum may shift, giving Naseem a golden chance to lead Pakistan’s fightback.
Chapman Ruled Out After Scans Confirm Hamstring Tear
Mark Chapman, the standout performer for New Zealand in the first ODI with a career-best 132, has been ruled out of the second game after sustaining a grade-one hamstring tear while fielding. The left-hander has flown back to Auckland for treatment but is expected to be fit for the third and final ODI in Mount Maunganui on April 5.
“It’s obviously disappointing news for Mark, after a really special innings in the opening ODI in Napier,” said head coach Gary Stead. “We’re hopeful he’ll be back for the final match of the summer.”
Seifert Returns After Five Years, Faces Challenge from Naseem Shah
In Chapman’s absence, New Zealand have brought in Tim Seifert, who last played an ODI over five years ago in January 2019. Though Seifert has only three ODI appearances to his name, his recent T20I form is encouraging—he top-scored in New Zealand’s 4-1 T20I series win over Pakistan with 249 runs and was named Player of the Series.
However, Seifert will have to deal with the threat of Naseem Shah, who remains Pakistan’s most potent strike weapon. Known for his raw pace, late movement, and fearless spells in pressure situations, Naseem will look to exploit the inexperience of Seifert in the 50-over format.
Pakistan’s new-ball pair, especially Naseem, will be expected to take full advantage of any early seam and swing Hamilton offers.
Naseem Shah’s ODI Rise and Role in Pakistan’s Strategy
At just 22, Naseem Shah has already become a central figure in Pakistan’s pace battery. In ODIs, he has emerged as a reliable performer, not just with the new ball but also at the death, often delivering breakthroughs in crunch moments.
His performances during the Asia Cup 2023, World Cup qualifiers, and away series in Australia have shown remarkable maturity. While Pakistan lost the first ODI, Naseem’s spell was one of the positives, as he bowled with discipline and heart on a flat surface.
Now, with New Zealand missing one of their most in-form batters in Chapman, Pakistan may lean heavily on Naseem Shah to make early inroads, especially against an altered batting order.
Head Coach Stead Confirms Tactical Adjustments
Gary Stead acknowledged that Tim Seifert wasn’t a part of their initial contract list but was brought in based on form.
“With several new faces in this squad it’s great to be able to call on a player of Tim’s experience,” Stead said. “He provides another strong top-order batting option heading into an important match tomorrow.”
But Seifert’s return won’t be easy—he’s up against a sharp Pakistani pace attack led by Naseem Shah, who’s already proved his mettle in New Zealand conditions during the 2022 Test series.
Pakistan’s Road Ahead: Bounce Back with Pace and Precision
If Pakistan are to level the three-match ODI series, Naseem Shah will have to fire early. The first ODI saw Pakistan struggle with their middle overs, but with Chapman out, there is now a clear opening.
To take advantage, they need:
- Early breakthroughs through Naseem and Shaheen
- Better fielding efforts to support the bowlers
- A disciplined bowling plan for the middle overs
- Effective rotation of bowlers to restrict power-hitters like Glenn Phillips and Daryl Mitchell
Naseem’s role becomes even more pivotal given his ability to generate reverse swing and strike with yorkers—skills that could prove decisive on the traditionally dry Hamilton surface.
Final ODI of the NZ Summer Beckons
The third ODI on April 5 in Mount Maunganui marks the final men’s international match of the New Zealand summer season. With New Zealand leading the series 1-0, Pakistan will want to keep the contest alive by clinching the second ODI.
For New Zealand, another win will mark their third consecutive ODI series win in the 2024/25 season, following victories against Sri Lanka and the tri-series in Pakistan.
But with Chapman out and Seifert stepping in, Pakistan sense a window of opportunity—and Naseem Shah could be the bowler to open it wide.
All Eyes on Naseem Shah as Pakistan Looks to Strike Back
With Mark Chapman’s injury shaking up New Zealand’s lineup, Pakistan will count on Naseem Shah’s pace and precision to bring balance to the series. Known for his fighting spirit and ability to shine on big days, Naseem enters the Hamilton ODI as the x-factor Pakistan desperately needs.
A strong performance from him could shift momentum ahead of the series finale—and reaffirm his growing status as one of world cricket’s most exciting young pacers.
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