Pakistan is all set to open the ODI tri-series against New Zealand and South Africa. They will square off against New Zealand in the first match on February 8, 2025.
Lahore’s iconic Gaddafi Stadium will host the opening game of the Pakistan ODI Tri-Series 2025. As the series gets underway, let’s look at the pitch report for the PAK vs NZ first ODI match.
But before that, let’s go through the match stats played at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Pakistan.
Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore: ODI Match Stats
| Total Matches Played | 67 |
| Matches Won Batting First | 34 |
| Matches Won Batting Second | 31 |
| Matches Tied | 1 |
| No Result | 1 |
| Won Toss & Won Match | 40 |
| Lost Toss & Won Match | 25 |
| Average First Innings Total | 253 |
As you can see, there’s not much difference in matches won, either batting first or second. The Gaddafi Stadium offers balanced conditions, though the toss could be crucial.
The average first innings total in ODIs at this venue is around 253. But given the aggressive batting approach taken by batters, teams can easily go past this mark.
Read Also:- Where to Watch Pakistan ODI Tri-Series 2025
PAK vs NZ 1st ODI | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore Pitch Report
Slow Wicket: The pitch at the Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, is like a standard subcontinent wicket. It will be a slow surface, with nothing much for the fast bowlers.
The pacers will have a hard time trying to extract bounce at this venue. But spinners will get some grip as the sun beats the surface in the first innings.
Batting-Friendly: Thanks to its slowness, batters may target the pacers for run-scoring in Lahore. But it won’t be easy to bat against spinners, as the surface will help them extract some turn.
Dew Factor: As the sun sets, though, the batting might become easier due to the presence of dew on the ground. Bowlers will struggle to grip the ball well, allowing batters to break free.
Toss: The toss hasn’t played a major role at the Gaddafi Stadium. But looking at the stats and conditions, teams will bowl first after winning the toss.
