New Zealand secured an 84-run victory in the second ODI against Pakistan, sealing a 2-0 series win in Hamilton. After winning the toss, Pakistan opted to field first, making four changes to their playing XI by dropping Usman Khan, Mohammad Ali, Irfan Khan Niazi, and Naseem Shah. Meanwhile, New Zealand had to cope with the absence of Mark Chapman, who was ruled out due to injury.
Batting first, New Zealand posted 292/8 in 50 overs. The opening pair provided a solid 54-run partnership in just 6.2 overs, with Nick Kelly scoring 31 before getting out. Rachin Ravindra (18), Henry Nicholls (22), Daryl Mitchell (18), and Michael Bracewell (17) also contributed.
As New Zealand stood at 132/5, Mohammad Abbas played a crucial innings of 41 runs to stabilize the team. The standout performance came from Daryl Mitchell, who remained unbeaten on 99 off 78 balls, hitting 7 fours and 7 sixes.
In Pakistan’s bowling attack, Sufiyan Muqeem and Mohammad Wasim took two wickets each, while Haris Rauf, Faheem Ashraf, and Aqif Javed claimed one wicket each.
Pakistan’s Batting Collapse
Chasing 293, Pakistan struggled from the start. Abdullah Shafique (1 off 11), Babar Azam (1 off 3), and Imam-ul-Haq (3 runs) failed to provide a strong foundation. Captain Mohammad Rizwan, despite facing 27 balls, managed only 5 runs. Salman Agha (9), Tayyab Tahir (13), Mohammad Wasim (1), and Aqif Javed (8) also failed to make an impact.
Faheem Ashraf was Pakistan’s top scorer, delivering a fighting knock of 73 runs, while Naseem Shah made a notable 51 runs. Haris Rauf had to retire injured after scoring 3 runs.
In New Zealand’s bowling, Ben Sears dominated with 4 wickets, while Jacob Duffy (3 wickets), Will O’Rourke, and Nathan Smith (1 wicket each) helped dismantle Pakistan’s batting lineup.
With this commanding 84-run win, New Zealand secured a 2-0 series victory, proving their dominance over Pakistan in ODI cricket.
