Wellington Test starts today

Pakistan skipper Misbahul Haq throws the ball during a practice session of the team at the Basin Reserve in Wellington Thursday ahead of their second Test against New Zealand that starts today. Photo: AFP

Taking a 2-0 sweep of the Test series against New Zealand was not on the
mind of Pakistan captain Misbahul Haq as his side made their final preparations for the second Test
at the Basin Reserve on Saturday.
The tourists won the first Test in Hamilton by 10 wickets.
The second Test begins on Saturday with the sides then embarking on a six match one-day series as they complete their preparations for the World Cup that starts on February 19.
Misbah, however, said they had not even discussed a series victory let alone a sweep, instead preferring to concentrate on improving from their performance at Seddon Park.
Misbah also said he expected New Zealand to perform better than they had in Hamilton, where the lifeless pitch offered little to the bowlers, but frustrated New Zealand's batsmen enough for them to make mistakes.
The Basin Reserve wicket was also quite green on Friday and expected to have more bounce and pace than Seddon Park.
New Zealand captain Vettori echoed Misbah's comments about the pitch, but the final make-up of his team, with all rounder James Franklin expected to come into the side, would determine whether he would bat or field first if he won the toss.
"Coming to the Basin you think there's a chance early on to take some wickets but I think in the past the team that has been able to put a decent score on the board has actually had more success with the ball on days two and three," Vettori said.
"It's about trying to balance that up but I think the final weighting of the team will have a huge influence on whether we bat or bowl.
"I think it will be another belter here, in that it will have a bit of pace and there will be something in it for everyone.
"Guys who are prepared to apply themselves with the ball and the bat will get something out of it."