Result: New Zealand won by seven wickets with 11 balls to spare
Christchurch witnessed another high-intensity clash in the Pakistan vs. New Zealand T20 series. New Zealand continued its dominant form to claim a convincing seven-wicket victory in the fourth T20 match at Hagley Oval. With this win, New Zealand secured a commanding 4-0 lead in the five-match series, giving Pakistan only one opportunity to restore some pride in the final game.
Pakistan’s Batting Performance
Batting first after losing the toss, Pakistan posted 158/5 in 20 overs, with Mohammad Rizwan leading the charge with a brilliant 90 off 63 balls. The opening pair struggled early, with Saim Ayub departing for just one run, but Rizwan stabilized the innings alongside Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman, who contributed valuable runs.
A crucial late flourish came from Mohammad Nawaz, who smashed 21 runs off just nine balls, ensuring that Pakistan reached a competitive total. Despite a strong effort, the total seemed slightly below par on a sound batting track.
New Zealand’s Bowling Display
New Zealand bowlers once again demonstrated their discipline and control. Matt Henry was the standout performer, taking 2 wickets for 22 runs, while Lockie Ferguson also chipped in with 2 wickets for 27 runs. Despite Pakistan’s effort to accelerate in the final overs, New Zealand’s attack kept the total within reach.
New Zealand’s Chase – Mitchell and Phillips Shine
New Zealand’s run chase was shaky as Shaheen Shah Afridi struck early, removing Finn Allen and Tim Seifert quickly. However, a match-winning partnership between Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips turned the game around.
- Daryl Mitchell played a match-winning reversal of 72 runs off 44 balls, confidently attacking the bowlers.
- Glenn Phillips provided stability and firepower, scoring a well-crafted 70 off 52 balls.
Their unbeaten 124-run partnership ensured New Zealand comfortably reached the target in 18.1 overs, sealing the victory with seven wickets in hand.
Pakistan’s Bowling Efforts
Pakistan’s bowling attack had moments of brilliance, particularly from Shaheen Shah Afridi, who finished with 3/34 in his four overs. However, the rest of the bowling unit struggled to apply coercion in the middle overs, allowing New Zealand to dominate.
Player of the Match and Series Scenario
Daryl Mitchell was named Performer of the Match for his outstanding 72-run innings, guiding New Zealand to victory. With this win, New Zealand took an unassailable 4-0 lead in the five-match series, turning the final game into a battle for pride for Pakistan.
Standout Performances:
- Daryl Mitchell – 72 (44)
- Glenn Phillips – 70 (52)
- Matt Henry – 2/22
- Lockie Ferguson – 2/27
- Mohammad Rizwan – 90 (63)
- Shaheen Shah Afridi – 3/34
Final Match Preview – Pakistan’s Last Chance to Avoid Whitewash
With the series already decided, the fifth and final T20 holds immense significance for Pakistan. A victory would help salvage some pride and provide much-needed confidence for future international assignments. Meanwhile, New Zealand will aim for a 5-0 clean sweep, further stamping its authority in the shortest format.
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As both teams gear up for the final encounter, fans can expect another thrilling contest in what has been an intense and competitive series. Stay tuned for all the action from the last game of the series!
