New Zealand capped off a dominant series by completing a 3-0 whitewash over Pakistan in the final ODI. Pakistan, chasing a challenging target of 265, was bowled out for 221 runs in just 40 overs, despite valiant efforts from their top-order batsmen. New Zealand’s Michael Bracewell starred with both bat and ball, scoring 59 runs off 40 balls and taking 1/39, earning him the Player of the Match award. Kiwi pacer Ben Sears was named Player of the Series for his stellar performance, claiming 10 wickets across the series.
Pakistan’s chase started well with Babar Azam top-scoring with 50 runs off 58 balls, including four boundaries and a six. Abdullah Shafique also contributed with 33 runs off 56 balls. However, the middle order faltered under pressure. Mohammad Rizwan, the Pakistan captain, fought hard with 37 runs off 32 balls, but the team’s batting collapse continued with key wickets falling quickly. Faheem Ashraf and Naseem Shah could only manage brief resistance, and the team fell short by 43 runs.
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Earlier, New Zealand posted 264/8 in a rain-affected match reduced to 42 overs per side. Despite a shaky start with the early loss of Nick Kelly, Rhys Mariu’s composed 58 and Michael Bracewell’s fiery 59 not out ensured New Zealand set a competitive total. Akif Javed was the standout bowler for Pakistan, claiming four wickets, while Naseem Shah took two.
Pakistan’s efforts with the bat were undermined by the relentless bowling from Ben Sears, who took four wickets for 42 runs, and Matt Duffy, who chipped in with three wickets for 37 runs. With this loss, Pakistan’s attention now shifts to the upcoming PSL, hoping to put their recent struggles behind them and deliver a strong performance for their fans.
