The year 2025 has started on a disappointing note for the Pakistan cricket team, as New Zealand not only dominated the T20 series but also asserted its authority in the ODI series. In the second One Day International (ODI), New Zealand convincingly defeated Pakistan by 84 runs, securing an unassailable lead in the three-match series. The match was played on April 2, 2025, at Seddon Park in Hamilton, where Pakistan once again failed to chase down the target due to a poor batting performance.
Match Start and Toss
At the start of the match, Pakistan’s captain, Mohammad Rizwan, won the toss and opted to bowl first. This decision was based on the expectation that early moisture and movement in Hamilton’s pitch would favor the bowlers. However, New Zealand’s batsmen rose to the challenge and delivered an impressive performance, posting a formidable total of 292 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in the allotted 50 overs.
New Zealand’s Batting: A Solid Foundation
New Zealand’s openers played responsibly and countered Pakistan’s initial bowling attack effectively. Throughout the innings, the home team’s batsmen maintained a steady flow of runs and built crucial partnerships. Although Pakistan’s bowlers managed to take some wickets, they failed to control the scoring rate. As a result, New Zealand set a challenging target of 293 runs for Pakistan.
Pakistan’s Batting: Another Disappointing Performance
While chasing the target, Pakistan’s batting lineup once again crumbled under pressure. Opener Abdullah Shafique was dismissed after scoring just 1 run off 11 balls, while Imam-ul-Haq managed only 3 runs off 12 deliveries. Former captain Babar Azam, from whom much was expected, could score only 1 run off 3 balls before getting out. Captain Mohammad Rizwan also failed to make an impact, scoring just 5 runs off 27 balls, while Tayyab Tahir contributed 13 runs off 29 balls. The top-order collapse made Pakistan’s chances of a comeback nearly impossible.
Faheem Ashraf was the only batsman who showed some resistance, scoring a commendable 73 runs—the highest individual score for Pakistan in the match. However, his effort was not enough to steer the team to victory. The entire Pakistan team was bowled out for 208 runs, handing New Zealand an 84-run victory.
Series Overview
With this win, New Zealand has taken an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match ODI series. In the first ODI, New Zealand had also defeated Pakistan by 73 runs, and their second victory has now secured the series in their favor. Pakistan now has only one match left in the series, which holds little significance other than serving as a final chance for the team to restore some pride.
Concerns for Pakistan
This defeat has once again raised serious questions about Pakistan’s cricket performance. The continued failure of the batting lineup, especially the poor form of experienced players like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, has become a major concern for fans and analysts. On the other hand, New Zealand’s team has demonstrated superior planning, consistency, and ability to perform under pressure, proving that they are currently far ahead of Pakistan.
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