In the tri-series final, Pakistan set a target of 243 runs after being restricted to 242 by New Zealand. Captain Rizwan made vital contributions, but O’Rourke’s four wickets halted their momentum. New Zealand’s disciplined bowling strategies clinched the title while Pakistan boasted impressive performances in prior matches, including a record chase against South Africa.
In the tri-series final at the National Stadium in Karachi, Pakistan set a target of 243 runs for New Zealand. Captain Mohammad Rizwan won the toss and opted to bat first. Will O’Rourke proved pivotal for New Zealand, securing an early breakthrough by dismissing opener Fakhar Zaman for just 10 runs in the fourth over.
The Pakistani innings faced an early collapse as they lost Saud Shakeel for eight runs in the ninth over, courtesy of Michael Bracewell’s bowling. Nathan Smith showcased his skills by taking a crucial catch to dismiss Babar Azam for 29 runs. Captain Rizwan contributed significantly, scoring 46 runs, while Salman Agha made 45.
O’Rourke stood out with his bowling performance, taking four wickets in total. Bracewell and Santner also excelled, each claiming two wickets. This decisive bowling display helped restrict Pakistan to a total of 242 runs despite Rizwan’s efforts in leading the team.
Rizwan announced the change in the lineup before the match, stating that Faheem Ashraf replaced Muhammad Hasnain in the playing XI. He expressed the intent to set a formidable target for New Zealand. In their last outing, Pakistan secured a thrilling six-wicket win against South Africa, highlighted by outstanding centuries from Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha.
The victory against South Africa was particularly significant, as it marked the highest successful chase in ODI history against that team, reaffirming Pakistan’s prowess in the format. Salman Ali Agha’s superb innings of 134 runs off 103 balls, along with Rizwan’s unbeaten 122, showcased their batting depth and resilience in high-pressure situations.
Ultimately, New Zealand’s effective bowling strategy led by Will O’Rourke proved too much for Pakistan, limiting them to 242 runs in the tri-series final. Despite solid contributions from Rizwan and Agha, the Pakistani batting lineup struggled against disciplined New Zealand bowling. Earlier performances, including their record chase against South Africa, highlighted Pakistan’s potential, but they fell short in the final match.
Original Source: dunyanews.tv
