WEBDESK: New Zealand secured the T20 series win against Pakistan after a dominant performance in the fourth match at the Bay Oval cricket ground. The NZ vs PAK clash saw the Kiwis outclass Pakistan in both batting and bowling, taking an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match series.
Pakistan’s Struggle in the Run Chase
Chasing a massive 221-run target, Pakistan had a nightmare start. The first wicket fell at just 2 runs, with Mohammad Haris departing early. Hasan Nawaz, who had shined in the previous match, was dismissed for just 1 run, leaving Pakistan at 8/2.
Captain Salman Agha also failed to make an impact, getting out for just 1 run. The wickets continued to tumble, with Shadab Khan (1), Irfan Khan (24), Khushdil Shah (6), Shaheen Afridi (6), and Haris Rauf (6) all failing to put up resistance. Pakistan was bowled out for just 80 runs in 19.3 overs, handing New Zealand a huge victory.
New Zealand’s Batting Power
In the first innings of the NZ vs PAK game, New Zealand set an impressive total of 221/6. Their openers played aggressively, with Tim Seifert scoring 44 runs with 4 sixes and 3 fours. Finn Allen smashed a quick 50, while Mark Chapman contributed 24 runs.
The middle order also delivered, with James Neesham (3), Daryl Mitchell (29), and Michael Bracewell (46)* ensuring a strong total. Haris Rauf took 3 wickets, Abrar Ahmed 2, and Abbas Afridi 1 for Pakistan.
With this victory, New Zealand has officially won the series. The final NZ vs PAK match will take place on March 26 in Wellington, where Pakistan will look for a consolation win.
