Christchurch, December 15, 2023: In a nail-biting encounter at Hagley Oval, New Zealand’s women’s cricket team emerged victorious against Pakistan, securing a one-wicket win and sealing the three-match ODI series 2-0.
The high-stakes match showcased exceptional performances from both sides, with New Zealand’s Maddy Green earning the Player of the Match accolade for her crucial contribution.
The clash began with Pakistan posting a competitive total of 220 runs for the loss of all wickets in their 50 overs. Captain Fatima Sana led from the front, scoring an unbeaten 90 off 104 balls, her highest in the ODI format. The White Ferns faced early setbacks, losing two wickets for just 13 runs due to the impressive bowling of Fatima Sana, who was captaining the side in the absence of regular skipper Nida Dar.
However, Suzie Bates and Maddy Green orchestrated a stunning comeback, forming a resilient 142-run partnership for the third wicket. The momentum swung back in Pakistan’s favor when leg-spinner Ghulam Fatima intervened, claiming four crucial wickets for 47 runs in her 10 overs. The White Ferns found themselves in a precarious position, losing seven wickets for 53 runs.
With only 13 runs needed and one wicket remaining, Lea Tahuhu (21 not out) and Fran Jonas (five not out) displayed nerves of steel, guiding their team to victory with an undefeated 13-run partnership. The match concluded with New Zealand reaching the target in 48.5 overs, securing a thrilling triumph and an unassailable series lead.
Earlier in the day, Pakistan faced a challenging start, losing four wickets for 35 runs in the initial 12 overs. However, Natalia Parvaiz and Fatima orchestrated a crucial 90-run partnership for the fifth wicket, stabilizing the innings. Despite the departure of Natalia, Najiha Alvi joined Fatima in the middle, adding a valuable 65 runs for the sixth wicket. Fatima’s outstanding innings of 90 not out included seven fours and a six, guiding Pakistan to a total of 220 runs.
In response, New Zealand’s captain Sophie Devine shone with the ball, claiming three wickets for 25 runs and reaching the milestone of 100 ODI wickets. Molly Penfold and Fran Jonas also made significant contributions, taking two wickets each.
With this victory, New Zealand solidifies their dominance in the ICC Women’s Championship 2022-25. The third and final ODI of the series is set to take place at Hagley Oval on Monday, December 18, with the first ball scheduled for 2 pm local time.
Scores in Brief:
• Pakistan: 220 all out, 50 overs (Fatima Sana 90*, Natalia Parvaiz 39, Najiha Alvi 32; Sophie Devine 3-25, Fran Jonas 2-36, Molly Penfold 2-43)
• New Zealand: 221-9, 48.5 overs (Maddy Green 83, Suzie Bates 74, Lea Tahuhu 21*; Ghulam Fatima 4-47, Fatima Sana 2-52)
• Player of the Match: Maddy Green (New Zealand)
Series Schedule:
• 3 Dec – 1st T20I, Dunedin (Pakistan women beat New Zealand women by seven wickets)
• 5 Dec – 2nd T20I, Dunedin (Pakistan women beat New Zealand women by 10 runs)
• 9 Dec – 3rd T20I, Queenstown (New Zealand women beat Pakistan women by six runs on DLS)
• 12 Dec – 1st ODI, Queenstown (New Zealand women beat Pakistan women by 131 runs)
• 15 Dec – 2nd ODI, Christchurch (New Zealand women beat Pakistan women by one wicket)
• 18 Dec – 3rd ODI, Christchurch (2 pm local time) (ICC Women’s Championship)