Pakistan suffered an 84-run defeat against New Zealand in the second One Day International (ODI), giving the Kiwis an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. Batting first in Hamilton, New Zealand posted 292/8 in their 50 overs. In response, Pakistan was bowled out for 208 in 41.2 overs.
Sports News: Chasing a challenging 292, the Pakistan cricket team was dismissed for 208 runs. This victory gave New Zealand an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series, winning the second ODI by 84 runs. While it seemed at one point that Pakistan might be bowled out for under 100, good innings from Faheem Ashraf (73) and Naseem Shah (51) helped them cross the 200-run mark. However, their efforts were ultimately insufficient to secure a win.
Pakistan's innings began with Abdullah Shafique and Imam-ul-Haq. Shafique (1) was dismissed by Will Young in the third over. Captain Babar Azam followed soon after, scoring only 1 run before returning to the pavilion.
Mitchell's Unbeaten Innings Provides Foundation
New Zealand's innings had a shaky start, losing 5 wickets for 132 runs. However, Mitchell Henry steered the team out of trouble with a magnificent unbeaten knock of 99 runs off 78 balls, including 7 fours and 7 sixes. He narrowly missed his first ODI century. His innings played a crucial role in taking New Zealand to a respectable total.
Pakistan's Poor Start Exacerbates Difficulties
Chasing 292, Pakistan had a disastrous start. Opener Abdullah Shafique scored just 1 run off 11 balls before being dismissed by Will Young. Captain Babar Azam followed, also scoring only 1 run. Imam-ul-Haq also disappointed, contributing only 3 runs.
Mohammad Rizwan and Aga Salman also failed to deliver significant scores. Rizwan managed 5 runs off 27 balls, while Aga Salman scored 9 runs off 15 balls. By the 12th over, Pakistan was struggling at 32/5.
Faheem and Naseem's Struggle, But Victory Remains Elusive
At one stage, Pakistan was teetering at 72/7, and a sub-100 total seemed imminent. However, Faheem Ashraf and Naseem Shah displayed resilience in the lower order. Faheem Ashraf scored his maiden ODI half-century, making 73 runs off 80 balls, including 6 fours and 3 sixes.
Naseem Shah also performed admirably in the lower order, scoring an unbeaten 51 off 44 balls, including 4 fours and 4 sixes. Despite their valiant efforts, this partnership couldn't secure a win for Pakistan.
Kiwi Bowlers Excel
New Zealand's bowlers bowled with precision. Ben Sears took 3 wickets, while Jacob Duffy and Will Young also provided crucial breakthroughs. The bowlers maintained pressure on the Pakistani batsmen throughout, preventing significant partnerships. With a resounding victory in the second ODI, New Zealand has taken an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.
