New Zealand seek redemption vs Pakistan in first Test

Misbah-ul-Haq

Christchurch: Pakistan and New Zealand claimed the high ground on the eve of today's first Test in Christchurch.

Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq looked to cash in on a perceived lack of confidence in the New Zealand ranks after their disastrous tour of India where they suffered a series whitewash. After being flummoxed by Indian spin in all three Tests in October, Williamson said New Zealand's challenge was to pick themselves up.

"It's important when you come off the back of that India tour, which was extremely tough, that we still come back here and play with freedom, express our skills. When we do we play our best cricket," he said.