Key Highlights:
In what was expected to be a closely contested ODI, New Zealand vs Pakistan turned into a display of Kiwi dominance as they secured a comprehensive 43-run win. The match, part of the ongoing bilateral series, was held under shortened conditions—just 42 overs per side—due to a wet outfield, yet still offered plenty of drama.
Pakistan, chasing a modest target of 265, faltered yet again, finishing at 221 all out in 40 overs. Their inconsistent batting order and questionable shot selection led to a collapse that turned a winnable game into another disappointment, leaving fans and experts questioning the side’s temperament under pressure.
New Zealand Set Foundation with Clinical Batting
Batting first, New Zealand rode on solid contributions from the top and middle-order. Debutant Rhys Mariu impressed once again, scoring 58 off 61 balls with six boundaries and two sixes. He laid the foundation early, keeping the scoreboard ticking despite early hiccups.
After the early loss of Nick Kelly, Henry Nicholls (31 off 40) and Daryl Mitchell (43 off 53) steadied the innings. However, it was captain Michael Bracewell who injected pace into the innings, slamming a quickfire 59 off just 40 balls, including one four and six massive sixes. His aggressive stroke play pushed New Zealand to a total of 264/8 in 42 overs, which proved more than enough.
Pakistan’s bowlers lacked penetration except for Akif Javed, who ended with a four-wicket haul (8-0-62-4). Naseem Shah chipped in with two wickets but was expensive at an economy rate of 6.0. Young pacer Sufiyan Muqeem was more economical but picked just one wicket.
Pakistan’s Chase Begins with Promise but Ends in Despair
Chasing 265, Pakistan began their innings with Abdullah Shafique and Imam-ul-Haq, but it was marred early on by an unfortunate incident. Imam-ul-Haq was retired hurt after being struck on the head by a throw, which visibly shook the team’s momentum.
Abdullah Shafique provided early stability with a gritty 33 off 56 balls, while Babar Azam looked in control with a solid 50 off 58 balls. But the middle order once again failed to capitalise. Usman Khan (12), Salman Ali Agha (11), and Faheem Ashraf (3) all fell cheaply.
Mohammad Rizwan, the captain and wicketkeeper, fought hard with a quick 37 off 32 balls but lacked support. Tayyab Tahir was the only other batsman to cross 30, scoring 33 off 31 with two sixes.
Bowling Brilliance from New Zealand
The New Zealand bowling unit operated like a well-oiled machine. Ben Sears was the standout, returning figures of 9-0-34-5, consistently troubling the Pakistan batters with his pace and bounce. He claimed crucial wickets including that of Shafique, Naseem, and Muqeem, ripping through the tail.
Jacob Duffy provided strong support with 3 wickets for 40 runs in 7 overs, while Michael Bracewell (8-0-39-1) and Will O’Rourke (9-0-60-1) kept the pressure on with disciplined spells. Every bowler contributed, ensuring that Pakistan never truly gained the upper hand in the chase.
Key Turning Points
- Imam-ul-Haq’s early injury had both psychological and strategic consequences for Pakistan, disrupting their rhythm.
- Michael Bracewell’s late innings assault pushed the total beyond Pakistan’s reach on a slightly tricky surface.
- Ben Sears’ deadly spell sealed the game, particularly his double strike in the death overs, collapsing Pakistan from 212/7 to 221 all out.
Series Woes Continue for Pakistan
This loss continues Pakistan’s rough run in the series. Having already lost the T20I series 4-1, and trailing in the ODIs, the pressure is mounting on the team management. Despite fielding a full-strength squad in the ODIs, they have failed to deliver in key moments. The batting unit, in particular, has come under heavy criticism for lack of application and temperament.
Score Summary
New Zealand: 264/8 in 42 overs
(M. Bracewell 59, R. Mariu 58, D. Mitchell 43; Akif Javed 4/62)
Pakistan: 221 all out in 40 overs
(B. Azam 50, M. Rizwan 37, T. Tahir 33; Ben Sears 5/34, J. Duffy 3/40)
Result: New Zealand won by 43 runs
What’s Next?
With the ODI series now firmly in New Zealand’s grasp, Pakistan must regroup quickly. Questions around leadership, batting order, and mental resilience continue to loom. For New Zealand, the victory reinforces the depth and balance of their squad, particularly their ability to perform under varied conditions with a young and emerging unit.
Pakistan will hope for a stronger showing in the next fixture, both to salvage pride and to identify areas for immediate correction ahead of a packed cricketing calendar.
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