The Pakistan National Cricket Team, riding high on their remarkable comeback in the third T20I, will aim to level the five-match series against the New Zealand National Cricket Team in the crucial fourth T20I scheduled for Sunday, March 23, 2025, at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui. With the series currently poised at 2-1 in favor of the hosts, cricket fans are eagerly anticipating another thrilling encounter between these two competitive sides.
Match Details and Where to Watch NZ vs PAK Live
The fourth T20I between New Zealand and Pakistan will commence at 11:45 AM IST (7:15 PM local time), with the toss scheduled for 11:15 AM IST. Cricket enthusiasts across the globe have multiple options to catch the NZ vs PAK live action.
For viewers in India, the Sony Sports Network (specifically Sony Sports 5) will broadcast the match live on television. Those preferring to stream NZ vs PAK live online can access the match through Sony LIV, Amazon Prime Video, and Fancode apps and websites.
International viewers have several broadcasting options available:
- Pakistan: Ten Sports, Tapmad, Tamasha, MYCO
- United Kingdom: TNT Sports
- Africa: SuperSport Cricket
- Australia: Fox Cricket
- Sri Lanka: Ten Cricket
- New Zealand: TVNZ
Series Overview: Pakistan’s Remarkable Comeback
The New Zealand National Cricket Team dominated the early stages of this T20I series, securing comprehensive victories in the first two matches. In Christchurch, the Kiwis demolished Pakistan by nine wickets after bowling them out for a mere 91 runs. The second T20I in Dunedin saw New Zealand maintain their momentum with a five-wicket win in a rain-shortened match.
However, the third T20I in Auckland witnessed a stunning revival from the Pakistan National Cricket Team. Opener Hasan Nawaz, who had registered ducks in the first two matches of his international career, produced a spectacular unbeaten 105 off just 44 balls. This remarkable innings, the fastest T20I century by a Pakistani batsman, guided the visitors to a convincing nine-wicket victory as they successfully chased down New Zealand’s total of 204 with four overs to spare.
Bay Oval Pitch Report and Mount Maunganui Stadium Analysis
The Bay Oval Cricket Ground in Mount Maunganui, established in 2005 within Blake Park, has rapidly developed into a premier international cricket venue in New Zealand. The pitch traditionally offers excellent batting conditions, making it conducive for aggressive stroke play and potentially high-scoring encounters.
The ground dimensions at Bay Oval feature:
- Leg Side Boundary: 63 meters
- Off Side Boundary: 67 meters
- Straight Boundary: 79 meters
- Back Side Boundary: 61 meters
T20 statistics at the venue reveal interesting trends. Of the 19 T20 matches played here, 13 have been won by teams batting first compared to just 3 victories for teams bowling first, suggesting a significant advantage for the side setting a target. The average first innings score stands at 155, while the average second innings score is 136.
Team Updates and Players to Watch
New Zealand will be without fast bowler Matt Henry for the remainder of the series due to a shoulder injury. Zak Foulkes will continue in the lineup for the final two matches, while Will O’Rourke remains in the squad as Kyle Jamieson’s replacement.
Pakistan’s team management has shown faith in their young players despite early setbacks. Fast bowler Haris Rauf has urged patience with the team’s newcomers, emphasizing that entrusting youth will eventually yield positive results as Pakistan aims for success on the international stage.
Key Players for the 4th T20I
For Pakistan, all eyes will be on Hasan Nawaz following his breathtaking century in the third match. His explosive batting at the top of the order could prove decisive once again at the Bay Oval.
The New Zealand batting lineup will rely on the aggressive opening pair of Tim Seifert and Finn Allen, who have shown their six-hitting prowess throughout the series. Mark Chapman, who smashed 94 off 44 balls in the previous match, remains another potential game-changer for the hosts.
What to Expect in the 4th T20I at Mount Maunganui
With momentum firmly shifting in Pakistan’s favor after their convincing win in Auckland, the fourth T20I promises to be a closely contested battle. The Bay Oval’s batting-friendly pitch could set the stage for another high-scoring encounter, making this a must-watch for cricket enthusiasts.
New Zealand will be keen to close out the series with a victory, while Pakistan, buoyed by their recent success, will aim to level the series and force a decider. The match presents an excellent opportunity for cricket fans to witness emerging talents from both nations as they compete in this crucial encounter.
Summary
The fourth T20I between the New Zealand National Cricket Team and the Pakistan National Cricket Team at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui, promises to deliver exciting cricket action. Cricket fans can catch NZ vs PAK live on various platforms, with the match beginning at 11:45 AM IST on Sunday, March 23, 2025.
With the series hanging in the balance and both teams showcasing exceptional talent, this encounter could prove pivotal in determining the ultimate outcome of this five-match T20I series.