New Zealand fast bowlers ran riot in Mount Maunganui, decimating Pakistan in swinging conditions to claim a thumping 115-run victory. The win secured the T20I series 3-1 for the home side, with one match still to play. Chasing 221, Pakistan crumbled for just 105 in 16.2 overs, as Jacob Duffy (4-20) and Zakary Foulkes (3-25) led New Zealand’s bowling attack.
Finn Allen & Seifert Fire in Powerplay
Batting first, New Zealand set the tone early with an aggressive start. Tim Seifert smashed a brisk 44 off 22 balls, attacking Shaheen Afridi and Khushdil Shah in the powerplay. He punished Abrar Ahmed for 19 runs in a single over, before falling to Haris Rauf in the fifth over. By the end of the powerplay, New Zealand had raced to 79/1, their second-highest powerplay total against Pakistan in T20Is.
Finn Allen’s Blazing Fifty & Pakistan’s Fightback
After a steady start, Finn Allen unleashed his power, hammering a 19-ball fifty, the fastest of the series. He took on Abrar Ahmed and Shadab Khan, smashing two fours and two sixes in a single over. However, his innings ended at 50 off 20 balls after mistiming a shot off Abbas Afridi. Pakistan fought back momentarily, restricting boundaries for five consecutive overs as New Zealand slipped from 134/2 to 149/5.
Michael Bracewell Lifts New Zealand to 220
Just when Pakistan seemed to regain control, Michael Bracewell played a match-winning knock at No.7. He struck a 26-ball 46, including five fours and two sixes, ensuring New Zealand crossed the 200-run mark. His 97-metre six off Shaheen Afridi in the 17th over was the highlight of his innings. Daryl Mitchell chipped in with 29 off 23 balls, helping New Zealand finish at 220/6.
Duffy & Foulkes Tear Through Pakistan’s Batting
Pakistan’s chase never gained momentum, as New Zealand’s pacers exploited the seam-friendly conditions. Will O’Rourke, playing his first match of the series, removed Mohammad Haris with a delivery that jagged back in. Jacob Duffy then dismantled the top order, removing Hasan Nawaz and Salman Agha inside the first three overs.
Zakary Foulkes, one of the two changes in New Zealand’s XI, struck on his first ball, dismissing Shadab Khan with a sharp inswinger. With Pakistan reeling at 56/8, their defeat was inevitable. Abdul Samad (44 off 30) was the lone fighter, but his effort wasn’t enough to avoid a crushing defeat.
New Zealand’s Bowling Brilliance
- Jacob Duffy (4-20) was the chief destroyer, becoming the highest wicket-taker of the series with 11 wickets in 4 matches.
- Zakary Foulkes (3-25) made an immediate impact with his swing bowling.
- Will O’Rourke and James Neesham also chipped in with crucial wickets.
- Haris Rauf (3-27) was Pakistan’s best bowler, keeping New Zealand in check during the middle overs.
Series Outcome & What’s Next?
With this comprehensive victory, New Zealand now lead the series 3-1, making the fifth T20I a mere formality. Pakistan will look to salvage some pride in the final game, while New Zealand aim to finish with a 4-1 win.
Match Summary:
- New Zealand: 220/6 in 20 overs (Finn Allen 50, Michael Bracewell 46, Tim Seifert 44, Haris Rauf 3-27*)
- Pakistan: 105 all out in 16.2 overs (Abdul Samad 44, Jacob Duffy 4-20, Zakary Foulkes 3-25)
- New Zealand won by 115 runs
- Series: New Zealand lead 3-1
