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‘Humara har format me bura haal chal raha hai’- Fans react as New Zealand defeats Pakistan by 21 runs to take 2-0 lead in T20I series

New Zealand edged past Pakistan by 21 runs in the second T20 clash at Seddon Park on Sunday, extending their lead in the three-match series to a commanding 2-1. After setting a […]

Jan 14, 2024 5:40 pm

New Zealand edged past Pakistan by 21 runs in the second T20 clash at Seddon Park on Sunday, extending their lead in the three-match series to a commanding 2-1. After setting a competitive target of 195, the Black Caps’ bowlers held their nerve against the Pakistani chase to secure what eventually was a comprehensive victory.

Finn Allen once again starred for New Zealand, blasting a scintillating 74 off just 41 balls to lay the foundation for their total. The young opener struck seven fours and five sixes, showcasing his trademark aggressive style. The likes of Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips and Mitchell Santner chipped in with valuable contributions as well. Haris Rauf was the top-wicket taker with three to his name while Abbas Afridi picked up two. However, apart from Shaheen Shah Afridi, all the bowlers were expensive.

Pakistan’s response began on a poor note as they lost openers Saim Ayub and Mohammad Rizwan with just 10 runs on the board. However, Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman, who have recently been shifted to the middle order, posted crucial half-centuries to keep Pakistan in the hunt. Babar stroked his way to a fluent 66 while Zaman made 50 off just 25 deliveries with the help of 5 sixes. However, once the duo departed, the chase stuttered. The finishers didn’t trouble the scorers much and eventually, it was skipper, Afridi’s 22 off 13 which reduced the margin of defeat. In the end, Pakistan fell 21 runs short, reaching 173/8 in their allotted 20 overs. Adam Milne was the pick of the bowlers as he returned figures of 4-33. Meanwhile, the trio of Tim Southee, Ben Sears and Ish Sodhi picked up two wickets apiece.

Can Pakistan make a comeback?

New Zealand will be buoyed by their win and are well placed to win the series. Pakistan, however, will need to find a way to overcome their middle-order woes and counter New Zealand’s aggressive play if they hope to win the series 3-2. They need to win every game from here on which will be a tough ask against a rampant Kiwi side.

Here’s how ‘X-verse’ reacted to Pakistan’s latest loss:

Fielding is a major major difference between both the teams.

— Haroon (@itx_haroon_453) January 14, 2024

We will win it by 3-2 margin Don't worry 😎

— Dt Talha (@PctTalha) January 14, 2024

And next 3 matches and series pakistan will win

— whatever (@Ustad102) January 14, 2024

Pakistan's middle order is a mystery, be it T20s or Tests. Unless they find new batters, they risk being stuck with Babar's routine slow fifty and Imam's Protein less innings.

— Vipin Tiwari (@Vipintiwari952_) January 14, 2024