World T20: New Zealand vs Pakistan, Match 23 – Players to watch out for

New Delhi: New Zealand will be eyeing for a spot in the semi-final as they take on Pakistan in an intense Super 10, Group 2 encounter at the Punjab Cricket Association IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali, Chandigarh.

The Kiwis have played some brilliant cricket all-around so far and will go into the tie as favourites. New Zealand have emerged as the team to beat after they stunned India first up, before getting the better of traditional rival Australia in a trans-Tasman battle.

Pakistan on the other hand will look to move on from the defeat they suffered against India and being in a must-win-scenario, could actually help them in giving their best and seeing off the Kiwis.

New Zealand and Pakistan are strong in their bowling and that could determine the aspect of how the match could fold.

Here are the players to watch out for in this enthralling battle.

Martin Guptill (New Zealand): Martin has been New Zealand's most consistent batsman of late and his aggressive approach upfront is a positive factor for his side. With Williamson alongside him, Guptill has the license to go all out and take the game to the opposition. Guptill attacked against the Aussies in the previous game and will look to do the same against Pakistan.

Mitchell Santner (New Zealand): The young all-rounder won hearts with his impressive outing against India and Australia, and will be keen to have a similar show in Mohali. Santner's brilliance with the ball is backed by his ability to contribute with the bat. Santner will be eager to bowl and get breakthroughs against an unpredictable Pakistan batting.

Mohammad Amir (Pakistan): The young fast bowler's role is so vital for Pakistan especially in the powerplay overs. Amir's main task would be to get early wickets upfront and jolt the New Zealand batting. His duel against the Kiwi's top three batsmen will set the tempo of this game. New Zealand will look to go hard upfront and Amir will hope he can stop them and put the brakes.

Shahid Afridi (Pakistan): Afridi's presence becomes huge in this gigantic clash and if he could replicate the form he enjoyed against Bangladesh, then New Zealand would be expected to be in a huge trouble. Afridi's contribution with both bat and ball could hurt the Kiwis. Although his performance was poor against India, Afridi will be eager to get himself back on track.