Karachi, Feb 14 (UNI) New Zealand asserted their dominance once again, comfortably chasing down Pakistan’s total of 242 to secure victory in the tri-nation series final on Friday.
With another clinical performance, the Kiwis have continued their impressive form ahead of the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy.
Pakistan’s batting woes persisted as they were bundled out for 242 after opting to bat first. The top-order failed to deliver, placing the burden on Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Agha in the middle overs. However, the duo struggled to build momentum as New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack, spearheaded by William O’Rourke (4/43), restricted them effectively.
Tayyab Tahir (38) and Faheem Ashraf (22) contributed useful runs lower down the order, ensuring Pakistan had a competitive total to defend.
New Zealand’s bowlers adapted well to the slightly two-paced pitch, with O’Rourke making effective use of cutters and spinners Mitchell Santner (2/20) and Michael Bracewell (2/38) applying pressure with their variations. The Black Caps’ fielding was not flawless, with a few catches going down in the latter stages, but by then, the damage had already been done.
The chase was not without its challenges, as Pakistan’s bowlers fought hard in the early stages. Naseem Shah bowled a fiery opening spell, with Agha and Shaheen Afridi adding pressure. However, New Zealand’s batting depth proved decisive.
Captain Tom Latham (56) anchored the innings with a composed half-century, while Daryl Mitchell (57) provided a brisk supporting act to take the game away from the hosts. Missed chances in the field proved costly for Pakistan, particularly when Latham was given reprieves at crucial moments.
The victory further solidifies New Zealand’s credentials as a well-balanced unit, with their pace, spin, and batting firing collectively. Pakistan, meanwhile, will be left to reflect on their inconsistencies with the bat and lapses in the field as they look to regroup ahead of future assignments.
