New Zealand is wary of Pakistan's spin threat, particularly Usman Tariq who has been excellent throughout the tournament. The Black Caps' middle-order batters Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, and Daryl Mitchell will need to counter this challenge, though they benefit from familiarity with Pakistan after facing them frequently in recent T20Is.
Pakistan, playing on familiar spin-friendly pitches, is unlikely to make significant changes after their victory against Namibia. Their spin attack will feature Tariq, Saim Ayub, Mohammed Nawaz, and Shadab Khan, with Salman Mirza likely as the lone pacer. New Zealand hopes to have captain Mitchell Santner back after illness, whose bowling style is perfect for Sri Lankan conditions.