KARACHI: New Zealand showcased a clinical performance to claim the tri-nation series title, New Zealand Thrashes overpowering Pakistan by five wickets in the final at the National Stadium on Friday night. This victory solidifies the Black Caps as strong contenders for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy.
New Zealand’s Commanding Chase New Zealand Thrashes
After Pakistan set a target of 243, the Kiwis chased it down in 45.2 overs, thanks to a crucial 87-run fourth-wicket partnership between Tom Latham (56) and Daryl Mitchell (57). Despite early setbacks, New Zealand remained composed and ensured victory in a one-sided contest.
Key Moments in New Zealand’s Chase New Zealand Thrashes
- Will Young fell early for just five runs and was trapped by Naseem Shah in LBW.
- Kane Williamson (34) and Devon Conway (48) steadied the innings with a 71-run stand.
- Pakistan had chances to turn the game around but missed opportunities, including dropped catches by Shaheen Afridi and Saud Shakeel.
- Latham and Mitchell held their ground under pressure, sealing the victory.
Pacer Will O’Rourke was named Player of the Match for his exceptional spell of 4/43 in 9.3 overs.
Pakistan’s Struggles with the Bat New Zealand Thrashes
Winning the toss and opting to bat first, Pakistan could not capitalize and were bowled out for 242 in 49.3 overs. Mohammad Rizwan (46) and Salman Ali Agha (45) were the top scorers but failed to convert their starts into big innings.
Pakistan’s Batting Highlights:
- Fakhar Zaman (10) fell cheaply, caught off Will O’Rourke.
- Babar Azam (29) became the joint-fastest to 6000 ODI runs but failed to build a big score.
- Saud Shakeel (8) and Khushdil Shah (7) struggled to make an impact.
- Tayyab Tahir played a quick 38-run knock but fell to Jacob Duffy.
- Faheem Ashraf (22) and Naseem Shah (19) added late runs to push Pakistan to 242.
New Zealand’s bowlers, particularly spinners Mitchell Santner (2/20) and Michael Bracewell (2/38), put Pakistan under immense pressure, restricting their scoring opportunities.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1282995-clinical-new-zealand-thump-pakistan-to-win-tri-nation-final
