New Zealand, Pakistan battle for semis spot

BENGALURU: An injury-tormented New Zealand will seek resurgence while Pakistan need a continuation of their recent resurrection, and that subtext of desperation could turn their crucial World Cup match into a classic in Bengaluru on Saturday.

The fortunes of New Zealand and Pakistan went through sharp curves after a bright beginning, leaving them in a tight spot in the race to the semifinals of the quadrennial big bash.

The Kiwis started the tournament with four wins on the bounce, and it looked a matter of time before they sealed a last-four berth.

Since that point, they have fallen to three defeats in a row against India, Australia and South Africa, and they are now stranded at eight points from seven matches.

On the other side, Pakistan are in an even dingier space with six points from seven matches.

Apart from the dwindling on-field returns, New Zealand will also have to deal with another obstacle ahead of their clash with Pakistan — a growing injury list that has five names in it.

Matt Henry hurt his hamstring against South Africa and the pacer is set to miss the match against Pakistan, forcing the Kiwis to summon strapping fast bowler Kyle Jamieson as his cover.

James Neesham had suffered a hit on his wrist in the match against the Proteas and the Kiwis will keep a close eye on his recovery.

Other than them, Kane Williamson (thumb) and Mark Chapman (calf) are in various stages of their recuperation, and they are unlikely to take the field against Pakistan.

But they will have a crumb of comfort in the knowledge that pacer Lockie Ferguson has recovered sufficiently from his right Achilles niggle to play against Pakistan.

But that is just a part of the consolation as the New Zealand bowlers will have to regain their sense of target against Pakistan, something they sorrily missed against Australia and South Africa while conceding 388 and 357 respectively.

It will not be easy for them though at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, an unforgiving cauldron to the bowlers with its true pitch and short, quick outfield. Agencies

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