New Zealand thrashed Pakistan by 115 runs in the fourth T20I match. Pakistan, having won the toss and opted to bowl first, found their decision backfired.
Sports News: New Zealand continued their dominance in the five-match T20I series against Pakistan, securing a one-sided victory in the fourth T20. In the match played at Bay Oval, the hosts defeated Pakistan by a massive 115 runs, taking the series 3-1. Both New Zealand's batsmen and bowlers played crucial roles in this victory.
New Zealand's Explosive Score
After winning the toss, Pakistan chose to bowl first, a decision that proved costly. New Zealand's opening batsmen, Tim Seifert and Finn Allen, provided a blistering start, adding 59 runs in just 4 overs. Finn Allen smashed 50 runs off only 20 balls, including 6 fours and 3 sixes. Seifert played an aggressive innings of 44 runs off 22 balls.
Mark Chapman (20 runs off 16 balls) and Daryl Mitchell (29 runs off 23 balls) then steadied the innings. Finally, captain Michael Bracewell played a whirlwind knock of 46 runs off 26 balls, taking New Zealand's score to 220/6. Pakistan's bowlers looked completely helpless and failed to secure any significant breakthroughs.
Pakistan's Batting Collapses
Chasing a target of 221 runs, the Pakistan team struggled from the outset. Openers Mohammad Haris (2) and Hasan Nawaz (1) quickly returned to the pavilion. Captain Salman Agha (1) and Irfan Khan (24) also failed to make a significant impact. Abdul Samad top-scored with 44 runs off 30 balls. Irfan Khan scored 24 runs off 16 balls, but the other batsmen failed to deliver. The entire team was bowled out for just 105 runs in 16.3 overs, handing New Zealand a resounding 115-run victory.
Who Were the Villains of Pakistan's Defeat?
New Zealand's bowlers gave Pakistan no chance. Jacob Duffy delivered a lethal spell, claiming 4 wickets and dismantling Pakistan's batting lineup. Lockie Ferguson took 3 wickets, while William O'Rourke, James Neesham, and Ish Sodhi each claimed one wicket. This victory secured New Zealand a 3-1 series win.
This defeat is a major setback for Pakistan, as the entire team crumbled while chasing the 221-run target. The final match will now be played only to salvage some pride. New Zealand's victory showcased their growing dominance in T20 cricket and solidified their preparations for the World Cup.
