Pakistan head coach Aaqib Javed has expressed confidence in his team ahead of the three-match ODI series against New Zealand, starting Friday in Napier.

Speaking ahead of the opening game, Javed highlighted the importance of fast bowling in New Zealand’s conditions and backed his experienced batters to deliver strong performances.

Javed acknowledged that Pakistan struggled in the Champions Trophy on flat batting surfaces but believes the seaming conditions in New Zealand will favour his side.

“The pitches here are similar to those in Australia and South Africa, where our fast bowlers dominated. If we can restrict them under 200, our experienced batting lineup, with Babar [Azam] and Rizwan back in ODIs, should secure good results,” Javed said.

The retention of Haris Rauf for the ODI series was a key decision, considering his strong performances in Australia and South Africa. “Even though we lost in the T20Is here, Haris proved why he’s the best option in these conditions,” Javed added.

Javed also defended Pakistan’s overall ODI structure, stating that the team remains settled despite concerns following the Champions Trophy.

“We carried four senior batters—Babar, Rizwan, Abdullah [Shafique], and Imam [Ul Haq]—because they provide stability. While we are making changes in T20s, our ODI setup is well-balanced,” he explained.

Looking ahead, Javed is optimistic about Pakistan’s white-ball future, with the Asia Cup and World Cup on the horizon. “We struggled on flat pitches in the Champions Trophy, but we have the right players for different conditions. Youngsters in T20s will develop further, especially after the PSL,” he concluded.

The first ODI between Pakistan and New Zealand starts at 11 AM local time in Napier, 3 AM Pakistan time on Saturday 29 March.