New Zealand will look to level the series when they face Pakistan in the second Test, which starts at Basin Reserve in Wellington on Saturday, January 15, 2011. A dramatic batting collapse on the third day of the first Test condemned New Zealand to a humiliating 10 wicket loss.
They will be looking to get back into the series by winning this game, which is the last one, before the One Day Internationals start.
New Zealand have also recalled Darryl Tuffey and James Franklin for this game. The two players had been released to play for their respective provinces ahead of their first Test. While Tuffey should replace either Tim Southee or Brent Arnel in the starting lineup, it is difficult to imagine Franklin getting into the first eleven as he no longer bowls longer spells.
Pakistan, on the other hand will not look to make any changes in their team. Abdur Rehman, the left arm slow bowler, had a wonderful game, picking up six wickets in the game and also making valuable runs with the bat. Saeed Ajmal, who has returned from Pakistan, having gone there to attend his father’s funeral, will have to watch from the sidelines. The three man pace attack worked well for Pakistan and it is hard to imagine them changing that tactic to suit two spinners in the squad.
New Zealand’s bowling attack looks to be the weak link. A pace attack comprising Chris Martin, Southee and Arnel does not strike fear in the hearts of the opponents. The Pakistani top order had a very easy game, with all the top order batsmen, except Mohammed Hafeez, got off to good starts. Even the entry of Tuffey is not going to make a difference to the strength of the attack. While Daniel Vettori can hold one end tight, it is tough to see anyone attacking from the other end.
A weak bowling attack means that New Zealand cannot afford another batting collapse like the one they had in the first Test. Brendon McCullum was the only one who played well and had two good starts. Ross Taylor needs to come good and New Zealand’s success will rest on his performance.