New Zealand vs Pakistan 2018: 5 players to watch out for in the ODI series
After toying with history against the West Indies, the rejuvenated Blackcaps will look to continue their impressive record against Pakistan at home. Their recent domination over Asian opposition bodes well for their gruelling home season that sees them play Australia and England in a T20I tri-series and the latter in a full tour.
With the return of the swashbuckling opener, Martin Guptill, the Blackcaps have been bolstered in the batting department. While they have the deadly duo of Tim Southee and Trent Boult, they won't have it all their own way. Pakistan are on the rise in white ball cricket and with a strong bowling line-up, they will look to usurp the Kiwi domination.
Here are five players to watch out for in the ODI series between New Zealand and Pakistan.
Faheem Ashraf
Pakistan are known to produce great all-rounders and they may have a gem on their hands in young Faheem Ashraf.
Ashraf has featured in just three ODIs and four T20Is for Pakistan, but has already made his mark with both bat and ball.
He had a decent warm-up game as well, picking up two wickets and contributing with 17 handy lower-order runs. If he does get a look-in, expect him to make the most of this opportunity, as he is set to form the core of the Pakistani side in the future.