Pakistan Friday displayed their batting skills, setting a challenging target for the Kiwis. Despite occasional rain delays and intense play, Pakistan ended with a massive score of 345 runs in 50 overs.
The game began with openers Abdullah Shafique and Imam-ul-Haq on the field. They faced a tough opening spell from New Zealand’s Matt Henry and off-spinner Glenn Phillips.
However, Henry managed to dismiss Imam early in the game. This brought the Pakistani captain, Babar Azam, to the crease, marking the start of a strong partnership.
Babar, known for his elegant play, was in excellent form. He quickly adapted to the conditions and the pitch, hitting some beautiful shots and keeping the scoreboard moving.
Alongside him, Mohammad Rizwan showed his stability, providing a solid foundation after the early loss.
The two built a commendable partnership of over 100 runs, keeping the New Zealand bowlers at bay. Their dominance was evident when Babar reached his fifty.
However, cricket is a game of highs and lows. New Zealand got the breakthrough they were looking for when Daryl Mitchell dismissed Babar for 80. The fans applauded the captain’s brave effort as he left the field.
With Babar’s departure, Saud Shakeel came to the crease. After some initial struggles, Shakeel started to find his rhythm. He hit some powerful shots, including his first six off James Neesham. With every passing over, Shakeel’s confidence was visibly increasing.
Rizwan, on the other hand, continued his excellent form, reaching a century. His innings was a mix of elegance and aggression. However, after reaching his hundred, he retired, allowing Agha Salman to join the action.
The final overs saw some quick scoring from the Pakistanis. Agha Salman hit a boundary to take the team score past 300, and Shakeel soon reached his fifty.
Unfortunately, his impressive knock ended when he was caught by Trent Boult off Neesham’s delivery. However, Pakistan’s late onslaught ensured they finished at an impressive 345/5.
Hundred is a hundred: Rizwan
After the innings, Rizwan said he was feeling proud and satisfied with his innings.
"Hundred is hundred in any conditions. I feel proud and satisfied. People at the airport gave us a lot of love. We got same love that we get in Lahore, Karachi and Peshawar. I am happy on this batting position, sometimes it's difficult when the ball is gripping but we should be able to handle pressure. Saud Shakeel has been in great form; he played a great innings in Sri Lanka and today he played a classy innings. Hopefully, he continues to perform like this in ODIs. Basically, Babar and my batting is same because we always try to rotate the strike. Our communication is good and that is the reason for our success."