Pakistan’s probable bowling attack for the first T20I of the five-match series against New Zealand, set to take place in Auckland on January 12, has been revealed.

The primary pace trio leading the attack is expected to include captain Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf, accompanied by Zaman Khan. 

Adding an all-round dimension to the attack, Aamer Jamal is set to contribute with both bat and ball.

During practice sessions, Shaheen, Haris, and Zaman were observed bowling in the nets with the new ball as one group. In contrast, the other bowling contingent comprised Mohammad Wasim Jr, Aamer Jamal, and Abbas Afridi at the other practice net.

Usama Mir is likely to get the nod over Mohammad Nawaz as the preferred spinner for the first match

The likely batting order is set to feature Rizwan and Saim as the opening pair, with Babar Azam following at one-down. Fakhar Zaman is expected to take the fourth position.

Azam Khan will occupy the fifth spot in the batting order and play as wicketkeeper, while Iftikhar Ahmed is expected to provide firepower at the sixth position. However, positions of Iftikhar and Azam can be switched as per the situation.

Likely Playing XI: Saim Ayub, Mohammad Rizwan (VC), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Azam Khan (wk), Iftikhar Ahmed, Aamer Jamal, Shaheen Afridi (C), Usama Mir, Haris Rauf, Zaman Khan

Full squad: Shaheen Shah Afridi (captain), Mohammad Rizwan (vice-captain and wicket-keeper) Aamir Jamal, Abbas Afridi, Azam Khan (wicket-keeper), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Haseebullah (wicket-keeper), Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Nawaz,  Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Usama Mir and Zaman Khan

Full schedule:
1st T20 – 12 January 2024 at Eden Park, Auckland
2nd T20 – 14 January 2024 at Seddon Park, Hamilton
3rd T20 – 17 January 2024 at University Oval, Dunedin
4th T20 – 19 January 2024 at Hagley Oval, Christchurch
5th T20 – 21 January 2024 at Hagley Oval, Christchurch