Led by their skipper Babar Azam, Pakistan on Saturday, October 8, defeated New Zealand by six wickets in the second match of the tri-series at Hagley Oval in Christchurch. The side had already defeated Bangladesh in the opening game, and the Men in Green showed their dominance over the hosts to seal their spot in the ongoing tri-series.
After electing to bat first, the Black Caps were on the back foot from the very beginning courtesy of some brilliant bowling by Haris Rauf, who conceded just 28 runs and also scalped the important wickets of Mark Chapman, James Neesham and Michael Bracewell.
While the in-form Devon Conway, Kane Williamson and Chapman scored 36, 31 and 32 respectively, they failed to make their good starts count. Mohammad Wasim Jr. joined the party for Pakistan yet again and carried his form from the match against Bangladesh to bag two wickets for just 20 runs.
Shadab Khan also played a vital role in Pakistan's victory despite being unable to pick up a wicket. His economy rate of just 5.25 kept the home team's batters at bay, while Shahnawaz Dahani picked up the important wicket of Glenn Phillips, who scored a 17-ball 18.
In Pakistan's run-chase, Mohammad Rizwan, who scored a fifty against Bangladesh, was unable to replicate a similar form. Instead, he scored just four runs off 12 balls, before he lost his wicket to Tim Southee. Shan Masood got out for a duck and just when New Zealand seemed like making a comeback into the game, Babar turned the screws.
A 61-run stand between Shadab and Babar restored the game in the hands of Pakistan. While Shadab was the more attacking of the two with his quick-fire 22-ball 34 including two fours and as many sixes, Babar went on to stay unbeaten on 79 off 53 with 11 fours. Haider Ali smashed a four and a six as Pakistan chased 148 with 10 balls to spare.
