In a stunning turnaround during the fourth T20 match held on March 23, 2025, at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui, New Zealand secured a dominating victory over Pakistan, winning by 115 runs and clinching the series 3-1. The New Zealand team set an imposing target, scoring 220 runs for the loss of 6 wickets, a total too daunting for the Pakistani side, which crumbled to just 105 runs.
New Zealand's innings was spearheaded by opener Finn Allen, who showcased explosive batting by scoring 50 runs off just 20 balls, including six fours and three sixes. He and Tim Seifert, who contributed significantly with 44 runs off 22 balls, formed a formidable opening partnership that put together 59 runs in a mere 4.1 overs. This rapid start set the tone for a challenging chase for Pakistan.
Despite a spirited performance from Haris Rauf, who achieved figures of 3 wickets for 27 runs, the New Zealand batsmen managed to accelerate scoring early on, posting a remarkable 134 runs in the first 10 overs. Captain Michael Bracewell's unbeaten 46 off 26 balls provided a crucial solid end to the innings, ensuring their total reached a formidable 220.
As the Pakistani team took to the field for their chase, they faced immediate challenges, losing Mohammad Haris for just two runs in the first over, bowled out by Will O’Rourke. The situation worsened rapidly, with Hasan Nawaz and captain Salman Ali Agha both falling shortly after, leaving Pakistan at a dismal 9 for 3 within two overs. The crumbling continued as vice-captain Shadab Khan also fell, making just one run and leaving Pakistan reeling at 26 for 4.
Only Irfan Khan Niazi managed to offer any resistance with a quick-fire 24 runs off 16 balls before Jacob Duffy sent him packing, marking Duffy's third wicket during the match. Pakistan's batting order disintegrated further as Khushdil Shah, Abbas Afridi, and Shaheen Shah Afridi followed suit, contributing a mere few runs each, leading to Pakistan being bowled out for 105.
The turning point in the match was undoubtedly New Zealand's superb start, which made the chase almost insurmountable for their opponents. Allen's innings was particularly praised for its aggressive nature. 3Our strategy was to start strong and build from there, and I think we executed that perfectly,3 Allen remarked after the game, reflecting on their approach.
Jacob Duffy's outstanding performance with the ball earned him four wickets for a mere 22 runs, showcasing his vital role in dismantling the Pakistani batting lineup. The last wicket to fall was Haris Rauf, who returned to the pavilion following a humble score of six runs as the Pakistani innings came to a close.
This match emphasized the challenges Pakistan faced throughout the series, particularly in terms of consistency in performance across all matches. New Zealand demonstrated their superiority throughout the series, having also experienced a significant victory in the previous match, winning by nine wickets and setting the pace with their batting prowess.
"We had a clear plan, and thankfully it worked in our favor today," said New Zealand captain Michael Bracewell following their decisive win. His sentiments echoed the feelings of the team, who have exhibited remarkable resilience in the recent matches.
Moreover, the batting statistics from the match underline the stark contrast in performance between the two teams. While New Zealand effectively capitalized on momentum, Pakistan struggled with pressure and early dismissals that led to their downfall. The match highlights not only the competitive spirit of T20 cricket but also the unpredictability that each game holds.
With this win, New Zealand solidified their standing in the series, oh so crucially winning the fourth match by a comfortable margin. As they look to wrap up the series with another win in the final match, the pressure mounts on Pakistan to reassess their strategy and find ways to counter New Zealand's aggressive playing style.
The players of both teams will have their sights set on the fifth and final T20 match, where Pakistan will aim for redemption while New Zealand will look to close the series in style. The cricketing performance displayed thus far from both sides will surely keep fans on edge as the series approaches its conclusion.
