New Zealand secured an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series with a commanding 45-run victory over Pakistan in the third T20I at University Oval, Dunedin.
Batting first after winning the toss, New Zealand set an imposing total of 224-7, courtesy of a stellar century by Finn Allen. In response, Pakistan struggled to keep up, managing only 179-7 in their 20 overs.
Brilliant Finn Allen Century Sets the Tone:
New Zealand, opted to bat, faced an early setback as Devon Conway departed early, but Finn Allen and Tim Seifert orchestrated a remarkable recovery. The duo’s 125-run second-wicket partnership laid the foundation for New Zealand’s imposing total. Allen, in particular, showcased his prowess with a sensational century, accumulating 137 runs from 62 balls, including a record-breaking 16 sixes.
Pakistan’s Bowling Challenge:
The Pakistan bowlers faced a daunting task as Allen’s onslaught and contributions from Seifert and Glenn Phillips propelled New Zealand beyond the 200-run mark. Despite Haris Rauf claiming two wickets, the rest of the bowlers struggled, with each conceding over eight runs an over.
Pakistan’s Uphill Battle in the Chase:
Chasing a formidable target, Pakistan lost opener Saim Ayub early in the powerplay. While Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan attempted to stabilize the innings with a 39-run partnership, Mitchell Santner’s crucial breakthroughs disrupted their progress. Babar continued his stellar form, scoring his third consecutive half-century, but wickets at regular intervals hampered Pakistan’s pursuit.
New Zealand’s Bowling Excellence Seals the Victory:
Tim Southee emerged as the pick of New Zealand’s bowlers, claiming two wickets for 29 runs in his four overs. Lockie Ferguson, Ish Sodhi, and Santner also chipped in with vital breakthroughs. Despite a late resistance from Nawaz and Shaheen, Pakistan fell short, managing 179-7 in their allotted 20 overs.
Player of the Match: Finn Allen:
Finn Allen’s exceptional century earned him the Player of the Match award for the second consecutive time, highlighting his crucial role in New Zealand’s dominating performance.
Series Outlook and Upcoming Fixture:
With a 3-0 lead, New Zealand has secured the series victory. The fourth T20I between Pakistan and New Zealand is scheduled for 19 January at Hagley Oval in Christchurch. As the series progresses, cricket enthusiasts eagerly await further exhilarating clashes between these two competitive teams.
In a series marked by standout performances and compelling cricket, New Zealand’s dominance raises questions about Pakistan’s strategy heading into the remaining matches. The upcoming fixture in Christchurch promises to be a crucial battleground for both sides.
