PAK vs NZ: An astounding all-round performance by the clinical Pakistan side helped them register a massive 102-run victory in the fourth of the five-match ODI series against New Zealand. With this victory, Pakistan clinched a decisive 4-0 series lead over the touring Black Caps contingent.
Winning the toss at the National Stadium in Karachi, New Zealand skipper Tom Latham made an unfortunate decision to bowl first. Batting first, Pakistan put up a fighting show and posted a commanding total of 334/6 in their first innings of 50 overs.
Pakistan was off to a decent start after frontline batsman Shan Masood (44) and skipper Babar Azam added a 50-run stand for the second wicket. Furthermore, Babar Azam (107) capitalized on his innings and built a stunning 117-run match-winning partnership alongside Salman Agha (58).
In the end, a couple of sizzling cameos from Mohammed Haris (17) and Shaheen Afridi (23) helped Pakistan to easily cross the 330-run mark. For New Zealand, Matt Henry (3/65) starred in the bowling attack with a contemplating bowling performance whereas Lister and Sodhi chipped in a wicket apiece.
PAK vs NZ: Latham-Mitchells 83 runs stand laid the brick of the Black Caps win
Chasing a mammoth total of 335 runs, New Zealand was off to a sluggish start after losing opening batsmen Will Young (15) and Tom Blundell (23) in the power play. Skipper Tom Latham (60) and Daryl Mitchell (34) then came to the rescue and put up a splendid 83-run stand for the third wicket. Chapman (46) joined the skipper and put up another crucial 55 runs for the fourth wicket.
Thereafter, wickets continued to tumble at regular intervals as New Zealand’s lower middle order failed to capitalize on the fascinating start. As a result, the Black Caps were bowled out for 232 and lost the match by 102 runs.
For Pakistan, Usman Mir (4/43) led the bowling attack with an absolutely phenomenal performance. Mohammed Wasim (3/40) provided crucial support to the pace attack. Haris Rauf (2/37) grabbed a couple of wickets whereas Shaheen Afridi scalped the big goat of Tom Latham.
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