- Watch Glenn Phillips for explosive batting.
- Track Lungi Ngidi’s early spells with the new ball.
- Toss decision could shape the match outcome.
Tri-Series Build-Up: Road to Champions Trophy 2025
The Pakistan Tri-Nation Series 2025 is a crucial warm-up for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, hosted by Pakistan. New Zealand and South Africa will clash in the 2nd ODI at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on February 10. Both teams aim to fine-tune their strategies ahead of the global tournament, making this match a high-stakes encounter .
New Zealand started strong with a 78-run victory over Pakistan, thanks to Glenn Phillips’ century and disciplined bowling. South Africa, however, faces pressure after a recent 0-3 loss to Pakistan. With key players like Kagiso Rabada and Heinrich Klaasen absent, the Proteas rely on young talent to step up .
This tri-series offers a testing ground for both teams. A win here boosts confidence and provides momentum for the Champions Trophy, where conditions in Pakistan will play a decisive role.
Team Analysis: New Zealand vs South Africa
New Zealand’s Strengths
- Top Order: Kane Williamson (58 runs vs Pakistan) and Daryl Mitchell (81 runs) provide stability.
- Spin Attack: Mitchell Santner (3 wickets) and Glenn Phillips (1 wicket) dominate middle overs.
- Form: The Kiwis have won 4 of their last 5 ODIs, showing strong all-round performance .
South Africa’s Challenges
- Experimental Squad: Missing senior players, the Proteas field newcomers like Meeka-eel Prince and Gideon Peters.
- Bowling Concerns: Their pace attack lacks experience, with Lungi Ngidi (96 ODI wickets) being the lone threat .
| Key Comparison | New Zealand | South Africa |
|---|---|---|
| Top-Order Batting | 8/10 | 6/10 |
| Spin Bowling | 8/10 | 4/10 |
| Overall Strength | 8.5/10 | 5.7/10 |
Players to Watch in the 2nd ODI
- Glenn Phillips (NZ):
- Scored 106* runs and took 1 wicket in the 1st ODI.
- A safe pick for fantasy teams due to his all-round skills .
- Lungi Ngidi (SA):
- South Africa’s key pacer with 96 wickets in 61 ODIs.
- Can exploit early movement on the Lahore pitch .
- Mitchell Santner (NZ):
- The captain took 3 wickets and contributed 8 runs in the last match.
- His left-arm spin is vital for breaking partnerships .
Pitch Report and Weather Forecast
- Venue: Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
- Pitch Behavior:
- Batting-friendly with an average 1st innings score of 271 .
- Spinners gain traction as the ball ages, but pacers may find early swing.
- Weather: Clear skies, 23°C, no rain expected .
Toss Strategy: Teams may prefer bowling first to chase under lights, where dew could aid batting.
Fantasy Cricket Tips for NZ vs SA
- Captain Picks:
- Glenn Phillips (NZ) – Consistent with bat and ball.
- Kane Williamson (NZ) – Reliable for steady runs .
- Risky Picks:
- Will Young (NZ) – Struggled with form recently.
- Meeka-eel Prince (SA) – Unproven at international level .
Dream11 Team Suggestions:
- Wicketkeepers: Tom Latham (NZ), Kyle Verreynne (SA).
- Batters: Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Temba Bavuma.
- All-rounders: Glenn Phillips (C), Mitchell Santner.
- Bowlers: Matt Henry, Lungi Ngidi, Tabraiz Shamsi.
How to Watch NZ vs SA 2nd ODI Live
- Date & Time: February 10, 10:00 AM IST.
- Live Telecast: Sony Sports Network (India).
- Streaming: FanCode app/website (India) .
Key Timings:
- Toss: 9:30 AM IST.
- Match Start: 10:00 AM IST.
Match Prediction and Final Thoughts
New Zealand is favored to win due to their balanced squad and recent form. South Africa’s inexperienced lineup may struggle against the Kiwis’ spin attack. A victory here would almost secure New Zealand’s spot in the tri-series final, boosting their Champions Trophy 2025 preparations .
Final Score Prediction: New Zealand 290-310, South Africa 260-280.
This match isn’t just about the tri-series—it’s a stepping stone toward the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Tune in to see which team gains the upper hand!
Check out the Champions Trophy Stats
