Pakistan set a unique record in series-equalling T20I win vs New Zealand
Pakistan set a unique record in series-equalling T20I win vs New Zealand
NEW DELHI: Pakistan displayed their versatility and depth in bowling during their series-equalling victory against New Zealand in the fifth and final T20I match in Lahore on Saturday.
For the first time in the history of their T20 cricket, skipper Babar Azam employed eight different bowlers throughout the game.
Shaheen Afridi led the bowling attack with 4 overs, taking 4 wickets for 30 runs. Saim Ayub, usually an opener, contributed 2 overs, conceding 20 runs without any wickets. Mohammad Amir had a spell of 3.2 overs but was effective, claiming 4 wickets for 41 runs.
Abbas Afridi and Usama Mir each bowled 2 and 4 overs, taking 2 wickets apiece, with Abbas giving away 24 runs and Usama 5.20 runs per over. Iftikhar Ahmed and Imad Wasim were also used, with Iftikhar bowling 1 over for 11 runs and Imad 1 over for 5 runs, neither taking a wicket. Shadab Khan contributed 2 overs, taking 1 wicket for 15 runs.
The bowlers’ efforts were instrumental in Pakistan’s nine-run victory, levelling the series at 2-2. Babar’s determined half-century and Fakhar Zaman’s aggressive 43 helped Pakistan reach a competitive total of 178 for 5 in their 20 overs.
Led by the formidable Shaheen Afridi, Pakistan’s bowling unit demonstrated their skill by restricting New Zealand’s batting lineup to 169 all out in 19.2 overs.
The match was not without its nail-biting moments, as New Zealand’s Josh Clarkson’s unbeaten 38 threatened Pakistan’s lead, with 12 runs needed in the final over.
However, Pakistan’s determination prevailed, with two crucial run-outs in Mohammad Amir’s over, securing the well-deserved victory in front of a passionate crowd at the Gaddafi Stadium.
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