LAHORE: New Zealand secured a nail-biting four-run victory over Pakistan, taking a 2-1 lead in the five-match T20 Internationals series in a gripping encounter at the Gaddafi Stadium on Thursday.
The match witnessed intense action and dramatic twists, keeping fans on the edge of their seats until the final ball. Batting first, New Zealand posted a commendable total of 178 runs for the loss of seven wickets. Despite some early hiccups, the visiting side managed to build partnerships, with opener Tim Robinson playing a pivotal role by smashing his maiden half-century. However, the innings slowed down after the initial 10 overs, with Abbas Afridi shining for Pakistan with three crucial wickets for 20 runs.
Chasing the target, Pakistan had a jittery start, losing skipper Babar Azam early in the innings. Despite efforts from Fakhar Zaman, Iftikhar Ahmed, and Imad Wasim, the home side struggled to keep pace with the required run rate. Fakhar Zaman’s valiant fifty and a vital partnership with Iftikhar Ahmed gave Pakistan hope, but ultimately, they fell short of the target, managing 174 for eight in their allotted overs.
While Fakhar Zaman’s resilient fifty provided a glimmer of hope for Pakistan, New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack, led by William O’Rourke with three wickets, proved to be decisive in the end. Despite contributions from various Pakistani players, including Abbas Afridi’s impressive spell, Pakistan couldn’t capitalize on key moments, allowing New Zealand to clinch a crucial victory.
In their chase, Pakistan had a jittery start, losing skipper Babar Azam for just five at team’s 13. Then Saim Ayub managed 20 runs after he was dropped at five and similarly Usman Khan was out at 16 who was also dropped at five and Pakistan thus lingered at 46 for three.
With Fakhar Zaman and Shadab Khan at the crease, Pakistan received another jolt in the 10th over. Shadab attempting a big hit failed to time and conceded his wicket to Bracewell and hosts were at 79 for four.
Fakhar, who produced 10th T20I fifth in 38 balls, was joined by Iftikhar Ahmed and the two came up with the most valuable fifth wicket partnership of 61 runs. But the initiative these batters rested slipped away with the wicket of Iftikhar for 23 runs produced in 20 balls. Losing his partner left Fakhar shell-shocked who too gave his wicket at 61 and team’s 146 by the 18th over. An over later Abbas Afridi was the seventh home batter to fall at 151.
Imad Wasim on his part contributed unbeaten 22 runs but did not get enough support from the other end. Abbas run out, Usama Mir (five) and Amir not out could not bring enough runs to earn smile for Pakistan.
William O’Rourke was the pick of New Zealand bowlers with three wickets for 27. Ben Sears had two for 27 while Michael Bracewell and James Neesham shared one wicket each.
Abbas Afridi was exceptional in his second spell, took 3 wickets for 20 runs. Usama Mir had a tough day at the office, while Zaman Khan struggled with his length and lines, which proved costly in the end. Imad Wasim didn’t perform at his best, having spent considerable time on the bench but it’s good for him to get some match-time. Iftikhar Ahmed, Usama, Zaman and Mohammad Amir chipped in with one wicket each.
With New Zealand having the same winning combination of the previous game, Mohammad Amir, Fakhar Zaman and Imad Wasim were back for Pakistan.
As New Zealand showcased resilience and tactical acumen in the series, the momentum has shifted in their favour. Pakistan, on the other hand, will look to regroup and bounce back in the fifth and final match of the series, scheduled to take place at the same venue on April 27. The series now stands at a tantalizing 2-1 in favor of New Zealand, setting the stage for an exciting finale.
As both teams prepare for the remaining matches, Pakistan will aim to rectify their shortcomings and stage a comeback, while New Zealand will seek to maintain their winning momentum and secure the series victory.
