PAK VS NZ: The much-awaited T20I match between Pakistan and New Zealand took place yesterday at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
Watch Live PAK vs NZ 2nd T20I at ARY ZAP
Cricket fans from around the world were eagerly anticipating this high-stakes encounter between two formidable teams known for their talent, skills, and competitive spirit.The match started with Pakistan winning the toss and elected to bat first against Kiwis in the first T20I of the five-match series.
Earlier, after winning the toss and opting to bat, Pakistan found themselves in a precarious position as both their openers, Mohammad Rizwan, and Fakhar Zaman, were dismissed early, with Rizwan falling to pacer Adam Milne in the fifth over for just 30 runs.
However, Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub came to Pakistan’s rescue, putting together a crucial partnership of 79 runs that helped lift the tempo of the hosts. Ayub looked impressive, scoring 47 runs before being run out in the 12th over.
New Zealand then struck back, taking four quick wickets, including that of Zaman, who departed after contributing 47 runs to the total. In the latter part of the innings, Faheem Ashraf played a cameo, smashing a quickfire 22 off just 16 balls, while Wasim added 16 runs off 13 balls, helping Pakistan add 47 runs in the last five overs.
Henry was the standout bowler for New Zealand, picking up a hat-trick and becoming the fourth New Zealand bowler to achieve this feat. Pakistan’s innings came to an end on the penultimate ball, with Lister finishing with figures of 2-30 and Milne with 2-51.
New Zealand’s batting lineup, tasked with chasing a target of 183 runs, faltered and crumbled, managing to muster a meager total of only 94 runs before being bowled out in the 15th over. This comprehensive collapse resulted in a resounding victory for Pakistan.
The second T20I of the five-match series will be played today (April 15) at 21:00 PST at Gaddafi Stadium Lahore.
