The power-hitting batsman from Pakistan, Fakhar Zaman, has expressed satisfaction with a new batting position slated for the forthcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand, commencing on January 12 in Auckland.

The 33-year-old revealed a directive from the coach and team captain to bat one down or two down, a shift from his customary role as an opener.

Acknowledging the competitive environment within the team for batting positions, Zaman emphasized its significance in team development.

“Competition is vital for any team. It’s positive that six players are vying for a single spot in the team. I’ve primarily opened for the team, but considering the situation, I’ve been instructed to bat one down or two down because, as you know, Babar and Rizwan have been performing as openers,” Fakhar stated.

“The coach and captain have asked me to bat one down or two down, and I am content with that,” he added.

Pakistan Squad: Shaheen Afridi (c), Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Haseebullah Khan, Iftikhar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Aamer Jamal, Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Mohammad Nawaz, Abrar Ahmed, Usama Mir, Haris Rauf, Zaman Khan

Pakistan’s New Zealand Tour:

• January 12: New Zealand vs. Pakistan – First T20I in Auckland
• January 14: New Zealand vs. Pakistan – Second T20I in Hamilton
• January 17: New Zealand vs. Pakistan – Third T20I in Dunedin
• January 19: New Zealand vs. Pakistan – Fourth T20I in Christchurch
• January 21: New Zealand vs. Pakistan – Fifth T20I in Christchurch