2 weeks Ago By Web Desk
Mitch Hay’s blistering 99 not out and a fiery spell from Ben Sears powered New Zealand to an emphatic 84-run victory over Pakistan on Wednesday, securing an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match ODI series. New Zealand set a formidable target of 292-8 after being put in to bat, with Hay’s explosive knock rescuing the innings from a mid-innings slump. In response, Pakistan faltered early and were bundled out for 208 in the 42nd over.
Hay’s fireworks rescue New Zealand Wicketkeeper-batsman Hay, playing a career-best innings, walked in with the Black Caps struggling at 132-5 in the 27th over. He unleashed an onslaught on the Pakistan bowlers, smashing seven fours and as many sixes in his 78-ball innings. His late blitz, including 22 runs off Mohammad Wasim’s final over, propelled New Zealand to a competitive total.
Nick Kelly (31) and debutant Rhys Mariu (18) provided a steady start before Pakistan’s bowlers tightened their grip. Henry Nicholls (22) and Daryl Mitchell (18) failed to convert their starts, while Michael Bracewell and Muhammad Abbas added a cautious 30-run stand before Hay took charge. Abbas played a crucial supporting role with 41, while leg-spinner Sufyan Muqim (2-33) and Wasim (2-78) led Pakistan’s bowling effort.
Eidul Fitr celebrations continue on third day across the country Pakistan crumble under early pressure Pakistan’s chase got off to a dreadful start, with Will O’Rourke and Jacob Duffy ripping through the top order. Abdullah Shafique (1), Babar Azam (1), and Imam-ul-Haq (0) fell cheaply, leaving Pakistan reeling at 9-3 within six overs. Ben Sears’ introduction further dented their hopes as he struck twice in his first over, dismissing Salman Agha (9) and Mohammad Rizwan (5).
Despite brief resistance from Tayyab Tahir (13) and Faheem Ashraf, who added 33 for the sixth wicket, Pakistan continued to struggle. A late fightback saw Ashraf (73) and Naseem Shah (51) notch up maiden half-centuries, putting together a 60-run stand. However, Sears returned to wrap up the innings with figures of 5-59, sealing the win for the hosts.
With the series in the bag, New Zealand will look to complete a clean sweep when the two sides meet for the final ODI at Mount Maunganui on Friday. Tags: hay sears power zealand series win pakistan.
