Pakistan is continuing its red-hot form in the ongoing T20 World Cup. After beating arch-rivals India, Pak has now defeated another top team New Zealand in its second game. With these two wins, Pak is now on the top of Group B’s table. It almost confirmed its semi-final berth as well. Pak will now face Namibia, Scotland, and Afghanistan in its next three games. Thus, it may be a cakewalk for the team to reach the semifinals.
It was once again the bowlers who shined for the men in green. Haris Rauf’s (4/22) deadly spell restricted the Black Caps for a low score of 134. With the help of Mohammed Rizwan (33), Shoaib Malik (26*), and Asif Ali’s (27*) masterful innings, Pak chased the total in 18.4 overs and won the game by 5 wickets.
Pak’s chase was not an easy one as the Kiwi bowlers gave their best from the first over. Captain Babar Azam was dismissed for a low score. Pak lost the wickets of Mohammed Hafeez and Mohammed Rizwan in consecutive overs and looked in trouble. When the required rate touched over 9 after 16 overs, Asif Ali had hit two consecutive 6s in Tim Southee’s over and brought back the match in Pak’s hand. After those big strikes, the win was an easy task for Pakistan. In the end, Pak made 135/5 in 18.4 overs.
After losing the toss, New Zealand came in to bat first. Openers Martin Guptill (17) and Daryl Mitchell (27) gave a cautious start to their team. When they are settling in the crease, Haris Rauf dismissed Guptill. Within a few overs, the Black Caps lost the wickets of Mitchell and Jimmy Neesham as well. After 9.1 overs, New Zealand’s score was 56/3. Skipper Kane Williamson (25) then anchored the innings with Devon Conway. When he started flexing his arms, Williamson was run out by Hasan Ali by a brilliant throw. Later, none of the Kiwi batters made an impact. After the end of 20 overs, they manage to score 134/8. Haris Rauf registered his career-best figures of 4/22 and remained the top bowler from Pakistan’s side.
Pakistan will next face Afghanistan on October 29. On the other hand, New Zealand will take on India on October 31.