New Zealand restricted Pakistan to 127 to win the second T20 of the two-match series by 17 runs late Friday in Dubai to level the series 1-1.
Pakistan won the toss once again followed the same game plan of fielding first against the Kiwis.
New Zealand started their innings cautiously and made full use of the powerplay to score 43 runs without losing a wicket, courtesy left and right-hand openers Anton Devcich and skipper Kane Williamson.
Pakistan were given their first breakthrough by Muhammad Hafeez when he rattled Devcich’s stumps on 21.
After that, timely wickets brought Pakistan back into the game and NZ ended their innings on 144-8.
Pakistan, in their chase, lost their way as wickets fell quickly. Ahmed Shehzad (33) showed some fight but for no good. Shahid Afridi’s late cameo of 28 gave the hosts a glimpse of hope but he was caught while pulling James Neesham in the 18th over.
Afridi said in the post-match presentation that playing a lot of dot balls was unnecessary.
Luke Ronchi received the man of the series award for his run-scoring while Anton Devcich was given the man of the match award.
Published in The Express Tribune, December 6th, 2014.
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