New Zealand captain Stephen Fleming believes the ability to soak up pressure will be the key to defeating a young Pakistan side in the tri-series final on Friday. New Zealand are looking for their first limited-overs tournament victory since the 2000 ICC Trophy and Fleming is confident his senior players will rise to the occasion and put pressure on an inexperienced Pakistani team. ‘‘We have got the experience and that has got to count for something,’’ said Fleming. ‘‘We have some big players with us who are in there to perform in the big games. ‘‘We are confident of putting a good showing but are very respectful of their ability and what they can do when they are hot.’’ Pakistan won a recent quadrangular tournament in Sharjah as they rebuild following their dismal World Cup campaign. But Rashid Latif’s side will miss the services of mainstrike bowler Shoaib Akhtar, who has been banned for two matches for ball tampering. He wrecked the lower order with assistance from Mohammad Sami, as New Zealand lost their last six wickets for just 21 runs.
