Pakistan roared back in style at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, defeating New Zealand by 10 runs in a nail-biting final T20 to level the series at 2-2.
Chasing a target of 179 runs set by Pakistan, the New Zealand team faced a formidable challenge and was eventually bowled out for 169 runs.
Tim Seifert emerged as the top scorer for New Zealand, showcasing a commendable performance with 52 runs to his name. Captain Michael Bracewell contributed 23 runs, while Jimmy Neesham and Mark Chapman added 16 and 12 runs, respectively.
Pakistan's Shaheen Shah Afridi exhibited stellar bowling prowess, claiming four wickets and posing a significant threat to the Kiwi batting lineup. Usama Mir supported the attack with two crucial dismissals, while Shadab Khan and Imad Wasim each took one wicket.
The match commenced with New Zealand winning the toss and opting to field first, inviting Pakistan to set the target. In response, the national team posted a competitive total of 178 runs for the loss of five wickets within the allotted 20 overs.
Captain Babar Azam showcased his batting prowess once again, notching up his 34th half-century in style. Azam's stellar innings of 69 runs off 44 balls included an impressive display of power-hitting, with two sixes and six fours.
Contributions from Fakhar Zaman, who scored 43 runs, and Usman Khan, who added 31 runs, further bolstered Pakistan's batting performance. Shadab Khan played a crucial cameo towards the end, scoring 15 runs and consolidating Pakistan's total.
For New Zealand, Zach Foulkes, William O'Rourke, Ben Sears, Jimmy Neesham, and Ash Sodhi each claimed one wicket, but their efforts were not enough to thwart Pakistan's dominance.
Playing XIs
Pakistan: Babar Azam (c), Saim Ayub, Usman Khan (wk), Fakhar Zaman, Iftikhar Ahmed, Shadab Khan, Imad Wasim, Shaheen Afridi, Usama Mir, Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Amir
New Zealand: Michael Bracewell (c), Tom Blundell, Mark Chapman, Josh Clarkson, Zak Foulkes, Cole McConchie, James Neesham, Will O'Rourke, Ben Sears, Tim Seifert (wk), Ish Sodhi
