T20 World Cup: Blackcaps dismiss suggestions of grudge match in opener against Pakistan

The Blackcaps insist they're not expecting any ill-feeling on the pitch during their Twenty20 World Cup opener against Pakistan in Sharjah overnight Tuesday (NZ time).

The clash comes just over a month after the Blackcaps abandoned their first tour to Pakistan in 18 years due to a security threat in a move that drew significant ire from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

Coach Gary Stead believes any hangover that decision exists only at boardroom level and cricket will be the only focus from both sides.

"From a player perspective, I don't think there's any animosity to actually what happened," says Stead.

That's despite PCB chairman Ramiz Raja voicing his annoyance, after the Blackcaps were whisked out of Pakistan on an emergency flight to the UAE, following a threat received by the government.

"The frustration is that New Zealand did not share their security concerns at all," Raja said.

Captain Kane Williamson doesn't expect any extra aggression from the Pakistanis, who will enter the match coming off their historic 10-wicket demolition over arch-rivals India in their tournament opener.

"I'm sure the focus will be on the cricket and it will be played in the right spirit," says Williamson.

Pakistan will also have the benefit of local knowledge on their side, with the match taking place in Sharjah in front of what is certain to be a vocal contingent of their supporters. Stadium crowds are permitted to be at 70 percent of full capacity.

"They've very, very knowledgeable of these conditions and clinical in these conditions, so they are one of the top sides," Williamson adds.

Afghanistan's demolition of Scotland at the same venue on Tuesday has many believing it's the most spin friendly of the three World Cup venues. 

"I think all three venues provide you with slightly different challenges and options, when you look at who you think is your best line-up," Stead notes.

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