All you need to know about the 2nd New Zealand-Pakistan Test in Hamilton

Even though there is plenty at stake for Pakistan, who find themselves at 0-1 down in the series, the second Test against New Zealand in Hamilton could assume extra significance in the long run. They will not have the services of skipper Misbah-ul-Haq who has left for home following his father-in-law’s passing and should give us an insight into their future.

On the other hand, the Kiwis have relished the switch from dusty Indian pitches to the pleasant greenery at home. For a team which is still unclear about the direction that they need to take in the post-McCullum era, a series victory against one of the better travellers should be a welcome boost.

Here are five of the most important aspects surrounding the second and final Test at Seddon Park.

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#5 Can a Misbah-less Pakistan regroup quickly?

Azhar Ali might want to offer a peek into the future

As far Pakistan cricket is concerned, numerous captains have come and gone. But, very few have gone on to play the role of leader. Undoubtedly, Misbah has been one among those with his unflappable demeanour setting an ideal example for his countrymen. At an official age of 42, the clock is however running out for him rather rapidly which could leave possible heir apparent Azhar Ali with a difficult task.

Having taken over the ODI captaincy from Misbah, he has already seen a struggling side plummet to much lower depths. With the Test team sporting a settled and thriving look instead, Azhar could be an apt candidate to carry the veteran's tireless work forward.

#4 Another greenish surface expected

A green pitch is expected to welcome both teams at Seddon Park

Amidst disconcerting murmurs regarding the types of pitches New Zealand have rolled out for touring teams, the curators left a copious amount of grass to tackle the effect of impending warm weather. A similar surface is expected in order to negate Yasir Shah’s menace and facilitate the home side's bid to seal the series.

Even though rain has been forecast for the first three days of the match, a result does not seem far-fetched when considering the help available to the seamers. The increased prevalence of humidity should make the new ball even more dangerous.

#3 Will the visitors take a gamble with Sharjeel?

Wahab Riaz is likely to slot back into the playing eleven

While Sharjeel Khan provides them with a belligerent option to partner Sami Aslam, the prospect of relocating Azhar Ali to number three may convince coach Mickey Arthur to prefer Mohammad Rizwan. On the bowling front, Wahab Riaz is likely to replace one of Rahat Ali or Sohail Khan.

Although Ross Taylor has been cleared to play, his problematic eye sight might not allow him to regain form. Matt Henry should pip Doug Bracewell for the vacant seamer's slot following Trent Boult’s knee injury even as Todd Astle makes way for Mitchell Santner.

Probable XI

New Zealand

Tom Latham, Jeet Raval, Kane Williamson (c), Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls, Colin de Grandhomme, BJ Watling (wk), Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner and Matt Henry

Pakistan

Sami Aslam, Azhar Ali (c), Babar Azam, Younis Khan, Asad Shafiq, Mohammad Rizwan/Sharjeel Khan, Sarfraz Ahmed (wk), Wahab Riaz, Yasir Shah, Mohammad Amir and Sohail Khan/Rahat Ali

#2 Pakistan’s series streak on the line

Boult previously missed a Test match during July 2012

Let us take a look at some of the key statistics relating to the game.

Pakistan’s previous series defeat came during August 2014 in Sri Lanka (0-2). Since then, they have won five and drawn two.

Boult last missed a Test for New Zealand during July 2012 (against West Indies). Since then, he has played 44 consecutive matches.

New Zealand‘s previous Test series victory against Pakistan at home came way back in 1985.

#1 Onus on Kiwi top-order to set the stage

Williamson had batted positively in the second innings at Hagley Oval

Although batsmen lower down the order stand a better chance at succeeding on this type of pitch, the platform set by the top three could have the bigger impact on the contest. In that regard, skipper Willamson has to shoulder the responsibility of captaincy by playing a solid hand.

Amidst enormous hype surrounding his storied comeback into the international arena, Mohammad Amir has not quite lived up to his potential yet. The prospect of a must-win clash and a conducive pitch could bring the best out of him.