In a high-stakes clash that wrapped up the three-match ODI series, New Zealand defeated Pakistan by 43 runs in the 3rd ODI, sealing a comprehensive 3-0 series sweep. Powered by all-around brilliance from Michael Bracewell and a devastating spell from pacer Ben Sears, the Black Caps continued their winning momentum in front of an energized home crowd.
Match Summary
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New Zealand: 264/8 in 42 overs (DLS Method)
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Pakistan: 221 all out in 40.2 overs
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Result: New Zealand won by 43 runs
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Series Result: New Zealand won 3-0
New Zealand’s Innings: Balanced Batting and Late Surge
Batting first under overcast conditions, New Zealand posted a solid 264 for 8, with several batters contributing key innings. Rhyss Mariu anchored the top order with a fluent 61 off 58 balls, while Daryl Mitchell added a valuable 43 off 53. However, it was Michael Bracewell, the captain, who stole the spotlight with a blistering 59 off just 40 balls, including 6 sixes, pushing the total beyond Pakistan’s reach.
Lower-order support from Henry Nicholls (31) and Tim Seifert (26) ensured New Zealand maintained momentum despite regular wickets.
Pakistan’s Bowling: Naseem Impresses, Others Falter
Naseem Shah led Pakistan’s bowling attack with impressive figures of 3 for 52, troubling the New Zealand batters with pace and bounce. While Sufiyan Muqeem picked up two wickets, he was expensive, and the rest of the attack lacked consistency. Loose bowling and fielding errors, including dropped catches, allowed New Zealand to build vital partnerships late in the innings.
Pakistan’s Chase: Promising Start Ends in Collapse
Chasing a revised target of 265, Pakistan started well with a 70-run partnership between Babar Azam (50) and Abdullah Shafique (33). Babar looked in prime form before falling to Bracewell, a wicket that triggered a collapse. Despite fighting cameos from Mohammad Rizwan (37) and Tayyab Tahir (33), the required run rate climbed steeply as wickets fell in quick succession.
New Zealand’s Bowling: Ben Sears Leads from the Front
Fast bowler Ben Sears was the standout performer with a fiery 5-wicket haul (5/42). He broke the back of Pakistan’s middle order with timely strikes. Jacob Duffy chipped in with 3 wickets, while Michael Bracewell added two more to his name, capping off a match-winning all-round display.
What’s Next?
With this convincing series win, New Zealand builds solid momentum heading into their next white-ball fixtures. For Pakistan, it’s back to the drawing board as they assess team balance, fielding discipline, and finishing ability under pressure.
Final Thoughts
The 3rd ODI was a classic example of how discipline, strategy, and execution can define success in modern-day cricket. New Zealand’s 43-run victory wasn’t just about one performance—it was about collective brilliance. As fans look ahead to future tours, this series has once again underlined why the Black Caps remain one of the most formidable teams in ODI cricket.
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