Pakistan displayed another impressive performance to wrap up a historic series win over New Zealand at University Oval, Dunedin on December 5. Having beaten NZ for the first time in a T20I to start the series, Pakistan went one better in the second match.
Nida Dar-led Pakistan scripted history as they held their nerve to secure a 10-run victory in the second T20I of the ongoing three-match series. Pakistan successfully defended their target of 137 against a power-packed New Zealand at their home ground.
Fatima Sana clinched her second successive three-wicket haul. New Zealand won the toss and opted to bowl first. Pakistan made a strong start credit to Muneeba Ali’s 28 ball 35 at the top order. However, they suffered a mini collapse when Penfold dismissed Nida Dar and Bismah Maroof in the space of three deliveries to leave Pakistan on 86-4 after 13 overs.
Nevertheless, Aliya Riaz ensured they finished with a fightable total, scoring her second unbeaten cameo in a row. Pakistan’s batter didn’t get much support from the batters at the other end. Riaz hit three fours and a six to set New Zealand a target of 137 proving a compatible total.
New Zealand fought valiantly but could only score 127 runs for seven wickets in their 20 overs. Hannah Rowe’s spirited 33 off 24 balls and Georgia Plimmer’s steady 28 off 28 were the highlights of their chase. Rowe had walked in when New Zealand were 62-5 in the 13th over, needing 76 off 45 balls.
In the end, Rowe’s wicket effectively clinched the match, Sana dismissed her when New Zealand needed 12 off three balls. Molly Penfold who came in next, only managed a dot and a single off the last two balls of the match and as a result, the White Ferns ended on the losing side.
The visitors’ bowlers stayed calm with Fatima Sana leading the charge by claiming three crucial wickets for 22 runs. Her wickets included big players like Suzie Bates, Sophie Devine and dangerous-looking Hannah Rowe. Sadia Iqbal supported her well taking two wickets ensuring that the pressure never eased on the home side.
The win brought Pakistan their first T20I series win away from home since October 2018 and their first T20I series victory outside Asia and Ireland. The grand series victory of Pakistan has added another feather of laurel to their glorious hats. Pakistan won the match by 10 runs. Aliya Riaz was named the Player of the Match for her valuable contribution with the bat.
Brief Scores: New Zealand vs Pakistan 2nd T20I
Pakistan – 137/6 (Muneeba Ali – 35, Aliya Riaz – 32, Fran Jonas – 2/21) beat New Zealand – 127/7 (Hannah Rowe – 33, Georgia Plimmer – 28, Fatima Sana – 3/22) by 10 runs.
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