New Zealand sealed a 3-0 series sweep on Saturday as Pakistan’s batting was tested again. Pakistan lost the third and final ODI match by 43 runs. Batting first, New Zealand scored 264-8 and Pakistan were bowled out for 221 in 40 overs. The match was reduced to 42 overs a side following delayed start at Mount Maunganui.
Like the first two matches, New Zealand won this one too by 73 runs in Napier and 84 in Hamilton. The Black Caps also won the preceding T20 series by 4-0.
Ben Sears was the standout bowler for New Zealand as he picked the wickets at the bowling figure of 5 for 34. He took Pakistan’s four wickets. All of wickets were the result of his aggressive pace bowling.
Key seamer Jacob Duffy also took 2 wickets for 40 runs including the important wicket of Mohammad Rizwan for 37 in the 33rd over.
Babar Azam was the top scorer for Pakistan with 50 runs off 58 balls with opener Abdullah Shafique. Abdullah Shafique failed to make a big impact with 33 off 56 balls.
Pakistan’s innings started on the backfoot after Imam-ul-Haq was forced to retire hurt due to a fielder throw hitting him on the jaw.
Read Details: Imam-ul-Haq Hurt After Unlucky Incident in 3rd ODI Against New Zealand
New Zealand batted first after a delayed start due to a wet outfield and Rhys Mariu scored his first ever half century. Mariu made 58 off 61 balls including six fours and two sixes. Captain Michael Bracewell scored 59 off just 40 balls including six sixes before being caught on the last ball of the innings by Akif Javed.
Akif Javed bowled well and took 4 wickets for 62 runs in his eight overs. However Naseem Shah took 2 wickets for 54 runs and bowled with great pace and movement.
