Pakistan’s Tour of New Zealand (5th T20)
In a surprising turn of events, Pakistan managed to secure a win against New Zealand, avoiding a whitewash in the T20 series. Pakistani bowlers bundled out the mighty Kiwis at the Hagley Oval, winning the fifth and final T20 by 42 runs.
Pakistan first posted a total that appeared challenging to defend, but their bowlers rose to the occasion, showcasing a remarkable performance. While Mohammad Rizwan anchored the innings, it was the quick-fire cameo from Fakhar Zaman and late blows from Abbas Afridi that propelled Pakistan to a total of 134 for 8.
Pakistan, buoyed by their batting effort, delivered an exceptional bowling performance in the second innings. Mohammad Nawaz set the tone with an early wicket, and an incredible catch from Haseebullah Khan removed the dangerous Finn Allen. The spinners, particularly Iftikhar Ahmed, who bowled for the first time in the series and picked up three wickets, were outstanding. Mohammad Nawaz ended with two wickets, while Usama Mir and Zaman Khan contributed with one each. Pakistan’s fielding and catching were excellent, putting constant pressure on the New Zealand batters. Shaheen Afridi then sealed the deal by scalping the last two wickets on consecutive deliveries.
New Zealand’s chase suffered early setbacks, losing Rachin Ravindra and Finn Allen in quick succession. Despite Tim Seifert and Will Young’s efforts to stabilize the innings, the latter’s dismissal triggered a collapse, reducing them to 72 for 8 in no time. Glenn Phillips fought valiantly but lacked support from the lower order as New Zealand fell short by 42 runs, reaching only 92 all out.
This solitary win for Pakistan not only avoids a whitewash but also marks the first victory for Shaheen Afridi as the captain of the team. Pakistan, after a string of losses in their last eight T20Is, will find relief in this triumph and will look to build on this positive momentum. On the other hand, New Zealand will be disappointed, missing the opportunity to seal a 5-0 series victory and ending the series on a less-than-ideal note.
Chief Scores :
Pakistan – 134 for 8 in 20 overs (Mohammad Rizwan 38, Fakhar Zaman 33, Shibzada Farhan 19, Tim Southee 2 for 19, Ish Sodhi 2 for 22, Lockie Ferguson 2 for 24)
New Zealand – 92 for 10 in 17.2 overs (Glenn Phillips 26, Finn Allen 22, Tim Seifert 19, Ifthikar Ahmed 3 for 24, Mohammad Nawaz 2 for 18, Shaheen Afridi 2 for 20)
