In a thrilling showdown, Pakistan rallied to a 9-run victory over New Zealand, leveling the T20I series 2-2. Babar Azam’s masterful 69 off 43 balls, complemented by a late surge from Fakhar Zaman, propelled Pakistan to a challenging total of 178, setting a trend for the series with three consecutive 178-run innings in the first innings.
Despite a strong start by New Zealand, with Tim Seifert’s rapid half-century and Josh Clarkson’s late charge, Pakistan’s bowlers turned the tide in the second half of the chase. Shaheen Shah Afridi’s devastating spell of 4-30 and crucial breakthroughs from Usama Mir disrupted New Zealand’s momentum, leading to a collapse in the latter overs.
Babar Azam’s commanding innings provided a much-needed boost for Pakistan, particularly in the absence of significant contributions from other batsmen. Fakhar Zaman’s stroke of luck, surviving a close call early in his innings, paved the way for his explosive performance towards the end.
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New Zealand’s strong start, anchored by Seifert’s aggressive batting during the Powerplay, seemed to set them on course for victory. However, Pakistan’s spinners, led by Usama Mir, staged a remarkable comeback, dismantling New Zealand’s middle order and lower order with crucial wickets at crucial junctures.
Despite Clarkson’s valiant efforts, Pakistan’s disciplined bowling attack proved too much for New Zealand to handle, ultimately leading to their downfall in the series-deciding match
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