ISLAMABAD (PEN) : New Zealand wrapped up their five-match T20I series against Pakistan with an emphatic eight-wicket victory in the final match at Sky Stadium on Wednesday, securing a 4-1 series win.
Tim Seifert’s Blistering Knock Guides New Zealand to Victory
The home team chased down Pakistan’s total of 128 runs in just 10 overs, with 60 balls to spare, thanks to a scintillating opening partnership between Tim Seifert and Finn Allen. The duo put together 93 runs before Allen fell to Sufiyan Muqeem in the seventh over for a quickfire 27 off 12 balls.
Despite Allen’s departure, Seifert continued his aggressive innings, scoring an unbeaten 87 off just 38 balls, including six fours and a staggering 10 sixes. His partnership with Daryl Mitchell, who remained not out on two, helped New Zealand cross the line comfortably.
Pakistan’s Struggles with the Bat
Pakistan’s batting lineup, on the other hand, never truly found momentum. After being put in to bat by New Zealand captain Michael Bracewell, Pakistan faced early setbacks. They lost opener Hasan Nawaz for a duck in the second over, followed by quick dismissals of Mohammad Haris (11) and Omair Bin Yousuf (7).
The visitors found themselves struggling at 52/5 after 10.2 overs. Captain Salman Ali Agha (51 off 39 balls) and all-rounder Shadab Khan (28 off 20) managed to put together a crucial 54-run partnership for the sixth wicket. However, the middle-order collapse continued as Agha, Shadab, and Jahandad Khan all fell in quick succession, leaving Pakistan at 108/7 in 16.4 overs.
Neesham and Duffy Shine with the Ball
James Neesham was the standout performer with the ball for New Zealand, taking five wickets for just 22 runs in his four overs. He was well supported by Ben Duffy, who claimed two wickets, while Ish Sodhi and Ben Sears each took a wicket to complete the comprehensive victory.
Conclusion
This final match of the series showcased New Zealand’s dominance in all departments of the game. The crushing eight-wicket victory sealed a 4-1 series win, marking a strong performance for the Kiwis, while Pakistan will look to regroup and address their weaknesses in upcoming fixtures.
