New Zealand asserted their dominance with a resounding seven-wicket victory over Pakistan, securing their fourth win in the five-match series and establishing an unassailable 4-0 lead.
The anticipation is now palpable as the series reaches its pinnacle with the fifth and final T20 match scheduled at the same venue on Sunday.
The spotlight of the match was undoubtedly on Mohammad Rizwan, who delivered a stellar performance with an unbeaten 90 runs. Despite Rizwan’s commendable effort, Pakistan’s total of 158 for five in 20 overs proved insufficient to thwart New Zealand’s determined pursuit.
Opting to bat after losing the toss, Pakistan showcased resilience, anchored by Rizwan’s unbeaten knock. The wicketkeeper-batter’s innings of 90 runs off 63 balls featured six fours and two sixes, steering the innings towards competitiveness.
Rizwan formed crucial partnerships, including a 51-run collaboration with Babar Azam and a 40-run stand for the fifth wicket with Iftikhar Ahmed. Left-handed Mohammad Nawaz added valuable quick runs, remaining unbeaten with 21 off just nine balls, embellished with three towering sixes in the 19th over.
Despite the commendable effort with the bat, New Zealand’s bowlers, led by Lockie Ferguson and Matt Henry, managed to restrict Pakistan. Both bowlers claimed two wickets each, ensuring that the target remained within a challenging but achievable range for the hosts.
In response, Pakistan’s skipper, Shaheen Shah Afridi, led from the front with a fiery opening spell. He struck twice in the first over of the run-chase and again in the third over, leaving the hosts reeling at 20 for three in 2.4 overs.
However, cricket is a game of partnerships, and Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips exemplified this as they joined forces to stage a remarkable recovery.
Mitchell and Phillips, undeterred by the early setbacks, orchestrated a stunning unbroken 139-run partnership for the fourth wicket. Their collaboration not only resuscitated New Zealand’s innings but also paved the way for a comprehensive victory.
Mitchell played a pivotal role with an unbeaten 72 off 44 balls, featuring seven fours and two sixes, while Phillips contributed a dynamic 70 off 52 balls, adorned with five fours and three sixes.
Despite Shaheen Shah Afridi’s efforts, ending with match figures of three for 34 in four overs, the Mitchell-Phillips duo guided New Zealand to victory in 18.1 overs. The result not only secured the series for New Zealand but also showcased the depth and resilience of their batting lineup.
As the cricketing world eagerly anticipates the final T20 clash on Sunday, New Zealand stands on the brink of a clean sweep, while Pakistan seeks redemption and a chance to salvage pride.
