Pakistan’s fielding has been below par in the T20I series against New Zealand, but Haris Rauf produced a moment of brilliance in the third match at Auckland. The fast bowler pulled off a sensational catch to dismiss Finn Allen early, giving Pakistan a crucial breakthrough in their do-or-die contest.
Rauf’s one-handed screamer
After winning the toss, Pakistan opted to bowl first, and their decision paid off instantly. Shaheen Shah Afridi, despite not being at his best, removed Allen—who thrives at Eden Park—thanks to Rauf’s sharp reflexes.
Shaheen delivered a full ball on the pads, which Allen flicked toward short fine leg. Rauf reacted instantly, launching himself to his right and plucking a one-handed stunner as the ball raced toward the boundary.
The catch stunned the crowd and lifted Pakistan’s energy as they aimed to keep their series hopes alive.
Shaheen, Rauf under pressure to deliver
Both Shaheen and Rauf entered the match under scrutiny. The pacers were dropped from Pakistan’s recent ODI squad and struggled in the first two T20Is.
Rauf missed the series opener and failed to impress in the second game, while Shaheen faced criticism for his performances, with head coach Aaqib Javed urging him to improve.
However, the catch will give both pacers plenty of confidence for the remainder of the series.
With Pakistan trailing 0-2 in the series, both bowlers have a point to prove in the remaining T20Is. Rauf’s brilliance in the field could be the spark they need as Pakistan fights to stay in contention.
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