New Zealand Clinches Series with Seven-Wicket Victory over Pakistan in Fourth T20I

Christchurch, The Gulf Observer: Pakistan’s Mohammad Rizwan’s exceptional unbeaten 90 for Pakistan went in vain as New Zealand secured a seven-wicket victory in the fourth T20I at the Hagley Oval on Friday.

This win marked New Zealand’s fourth triumph in the five-match series, establishing a commanding lead of 4-0.

Opting to bat first, Pakistan posted a competitive total of 158 for five in 20 overs, largely propelled by Rizwan’s outstanding 90-run innings. The wicketkeeper-batter’s innings featured six fours and two sixes, setting the stage for a challenging contest. Rizwan collaborated in a 51-run partnership with Babar Azam and later contributed to a 40-run stand for the fifth wicket with Iftikhar Ahmed.

Despite Rizwan’s heroics, New Zealand’s captain Shaheen Afridi led a spirited bowling effort, claiming early wickets and restricting Pakistan to a defendable total.

In response, New Zealand faced early setbacks as Shaheen Afridi struck twice in the first over, putting the hosts at three for 20 in 2.4 overs. However, Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips then joined forces, orchestrating an unbroken 139-run partnership for the fourth wicket.

Mitchell’s unbeaten 72 off 44 balls, including seven fours and two sixes, and Phillips’ 70 off 52 balls, comprising five fours and three sixes, guided New Zealand to the target in 18.1 overs.

Reflecting on the match, Pakistan’s captain Shaheen Afridi acknowledged Rizwan’s crucial contribution but lamented missed opportunities during the middle overs. Afridi, who took three wickets for 34 runs in four overs, expressed confidence that with better execution, Pakistan could have defended their total.

Despite the loss, the series has showcased thrilling cricket moments, and attention now turns to the fifth T20I as both teams aim to make a mark in the concluding encounter.