In contrast, Pakistan had a dominant year in T20s, winning eight out of 10 games including a 2-1 triumph over the World XI in Lahore. However, one-day internationals have been Pakistan's strongest suit. They are on a nine-match winning streak ahead of the first game in a five-ODI series against New Zealand, starting Saturday in Wellington.
The jewel in their 2017 crown was the victory over India to win the Champions Trophy. A lot rides on any duel between the countries, particularly in cricket, but the 180-run margin was emphatic.
Almost every member of the Pakistan XI contributed. Fakhar Zaman made 114 off 106 balls alongside half-centuries from Azhar Ali and Mohammad Hafeez in their 338 for four. Pace bowlers Mohammad Amir and world No.1 Hasan Ali took three wickets apiece and leg spinner Shadab Khan two as India crumbled for 158 in 30.3 overs.
Nine of that side, including the above names alongside world No.4 ODI batsman Babar Azam, captain Sarfraz Ahmed and veteran Shoaib Malik, have arrived in New Zealand. Only left-arm orthodox all-rounder Imad Wasim and paceman Junaid Khan are missing due to injury.
The moral of the story is "be warned": Pakistan's world ranking of sixth might deceive. "The variety Pakistan offers is a challenge. Batting-wise, they've got some aggressive and experienced players, and they have as good a bowling attack in world cricket with wrist spinners, finger spinners and left and right arm quicks."
The beauty of following a Pakistan tour is that they have no peer when it comes to creating drama through brilliance or nonchalance. No one, perhaps with the exception of Afghanistan, has adapted, rebuilt and survived in international cricket like they have, certainly over a sustained period.