Australia and Zealand are preparing for thrilling encounters that will see both the cricketing giants take on each other in the three-match T20I series scheduled to start from Wednesday with the first game in Wellington. This series marks the beginning of a fierce battle between two cricketing giants, serving as a crucial platform in their preparations for the approaching T20I World Cup 2024.

With the T20I World Cup on the horizon, this series provides an excellent opportunity for both sides to fine-tune their strategies, test their combinations, and assess their strengths and weaknesses against a formidable opponent.

For New Zealand, the spotlight will be on their dynamic players Devon Conway, Finn Allen and Rachin Ravindra. Formidable Black Caps are led by Mitchell Santner in the presence of whole host of terrific players. Additionally, the bowling prowess of players like Trent Boult and Tim Southee adds depth to their lineup, capable of turning the tide of the game in an instant.

New Zealand will come off an emphatic campaign against Pakistan in the recently concluded five-match T20I series where they defeated men in green 4-1 to accumulate ample amount of confidence.

On the other hand, Australia boast a star-studded lineup led by Mitchell Marsh, one of the most destructive batsmen in T20 cricket. With the likes of David Warner, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Wade and Josh Inglis in their ranks, Australia possess a formidable batting arsenal capable of decimating any bowling attack. 

Moreover, the pace battery consisting of seasoned players Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood will look to unsettle the Kiwi batsmen with their raw pace and relentless accuracy. Australia, in their recent assignment, defeated West Indies 2-1 in the three-match series, despite Mitchell Stars, Pat Cummins and Steve Smith being rested. 

Australia Probable XI: David Warner, Travis Head, Steve Smith, Josh Inglis, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Marsh (c), Matthew Wade (wk), Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Adam Zampa

New Zealand Probable XI: Finn Allen, Devon Conway, Tim Seifert, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Mitchell Santner (c), Ish Sodhi, Lockie Ferguson, Tim Southee, Trent Boult