Rival captains Mohammad Rizwan and Mitchell Santner said on Friday that Pakistan and New Zealand’s weekend clash in a tri-nation series will be a dress rehearsal for their Champions Trophy showdown.

The ODI tri-series format is all set to make a comeback as Pakistan welcome New Zealand and South Africa to their shores in what is seen as a dress rehersal before the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy. The matches will be played in the revamped stadiums in Karachi and Lahore.

With an ODI tri-series making a return to international cricket after a long time, fans can expect plenty of thrilling action.

Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan hinted that Babar Azam could be the one opening the batting for his side in the tri-series opener against New Zealand on February 8. Babar is expected to play the role during the ICC Champions Trophy later this month.

Temba Bavuma-led South Africa team arrived in Lahore on Friday for the upcoming ODI tri-series against New Zealand and Pakistan.

Follow live coverage of Pakistan vs New Zealand from the Tri-Series in Pakistan 2025 today. The ICC Test Championship sees nine teams compete across a two-year cycle of matches before a two-team final decides the winner.

The tri-nation ODI series involving hosts Pakistan, along with New Zealand and South Africa will be played from February 8-14 at the newly constructed Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore and National Stadium in Karachi.