Kiwi Batter Highlights Tariq’s Unique Action

New Zealand is set to clash with Pakistan in the Super Eight opener of the T20 World Cup at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Saturday. Kiwi batter Mark Chapman has identified Pakistan’s spin attack, particularly that of Usman Tariq, as a significant challenge for his team.

“I mean obviously Usman Tariq has a pretty unique action with the way that he stops at the crease, so I mean that’s something to factor in. Pakistan have a number of really good spinners on their side, so each of them poses their own threat,”

Mark Chapman, via ICC

Tariq, 27, has been a standout performer in the tournament, claiming eight wickets with an impressive economy rate of 5.83 and an average of 8.38. He notably took four wickets in a match against Namibia during the group stage.

Familiarity and Game Plan

Chapman emphasized New Zealand’s familiarity with the Pakistani team, stating they have faced each other frequently in recent years. The Kiwis are focused on executing their own game plan effectively.

“Pakistan’s one of the teams that we’ve played probably the most frequently over the last few years. So, we’re well aware of what they’re going to bring. So for us, it’s just about making sure we’re really clear in the way that we want to play as a team,”

Mark Chapman

Team Updates: Santner Returns, Ferguson’s Availability Uncertain

New Zealand anticipates the return of captain Mitchell Santner, who missed the previous match due to illness. However, the availability of fast bowler Lockie Ferguson, who has returned to New Zealand for the birth of his first child, remains uncertain.

“Santner looks pretty sprightly, so I think he’s pretty excited to get back on the park. Barring any last-minute sickness, I think he’ll be there. Obviously, Lockie (Ferguson) has left us. I think he’s currently on the way back. So we’ll just see how he pulls up from the flight. I can’t confirm or say whether he’ll be in the 11 or not. I’m not too sure, to be honest.”

Mark Chapman

Adapting to Conditions

Chapman highlighted the advantage of playing all Super Eight matches at the same venue in Colombo, allowing the team to better understand and adapt to the local conditions.

“When you play in these tournaments, one of the challenges is hopping from venue to venue and adapting. And playing all three games here, we’ll learn each game as we go. For us, it’s quite nice to be able to turn up to the same place and the same venue, similar pitches and adjust.”

Mark Chapman

Strategic Approach to Spin

Chapman discussed the need to adjust batting strategies in Sri Lanka, particularly against spin bowlers. He emphasized the importance of utilizing sweep shots and reverse sweeps, as well as focusing on running between the wickets.

“I think here, especially, given the slower nature of the pitch along with the slightly bigger boundaries as well, you have to certainly change your game plan…Lots of twos, lots of fours and running hard between the wickets is really important as well, particularly if it’s not a highly high score.”

Mark Chapman

Super Eight Qualification

Both Pakistan and New Zealand qualified for the Super Eights after winning three of their four group-stage matches.