New Zealand vs Pakistan: A Thrilling Encounter Unfolds in Christchurch | Clear Update

Welcome to our live coverage of the 4th T20I clash between New Zealand and Pakistan in Christchurch. In a captivating showdown, New Zealand won the toss and elected to field in the final T20I, with the absence of Devon Conway due to Covid-19. Pakistan, determined to secure their first win on the tour, dropped Azam Khan.

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Early Highlights (Overs 1-5)

The opening overs set the tone for the match. Zaman Khan, in the 5th over, tested Glenn Phillips with a fuller delivery, but the Kiwi batsman couldn’t find the gap on the on-side. Daryl Mitchell, too, managed a single as Zaman Khan targeted his toes. Shaheen Afridi’s bouncer caught Glenn Phillips off guard, resulting in a deflection that struck the helmet. A mandatory check ensued, but Phillips appeared unharmed.

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Afridi’s Brilliance (Overs 6-10)

Shaheen Afridi showcased his prowess in the 4th over, delivering a well-timed full-length ball that Glenn Phillips lofted past mid-off for a beautiful boundary. Afridi’s mix of short and slower deliveries kept the Kiwi batsmen on their toes. A jaffa in the 4th over nearly found the edge, highlighting Afridi’s ability to generate late swing.

Rauf and Khan’s Impact (Overs 11-15)

Haris Rauf, replacing Zaman Khan, maintained a shorter length, testing the Kiwi batsmen with variations. Glenn Phillips managed a well-timed boundary, displaying his prowess. Zaman Khan returned to the attack, delivering a probing over with some swing. Will Young and Daryl Mitchell added crucial singles, keeping the scoreboard ticking.

Afridi’s Triple Blow (Overs 16-20)

In a game-changing over, Shaheen Afridi dismissed Will Young with a brilliant catch by Mohammad Nawaz. The short delivery was dispatched to mid-wicket, where Nawaz showcased his fielding prowess. Finn Allen, after hitting two boundaries, fell victim to Afridi’s clever delivery, giving Pakistan a strong start.

Pakistan’s Innings Overview

In the first innings, Pakistan faced a shaky start, losing Saim Ayub early. Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam steadied the ship, putting up a solid partnership. Fakhar Zaman struggled to find form, losing his wicket, followed by Sahibzada Farhan. Iftikhar Ahmed tried to stabilize the innings, but the Kiwi bowlers, especially Afridi, disrupted Pakistan’s rhythm. Mohammad Rizwan’s crucial contributions and Mohammad Nawaz’s late fireworks propelled Pakistan to a total of 158.

The Chase Begins

As New Zealand takes on the challenge of chasing 159, the target seems achievable given their batting form. However, the Christchurch pitch offers pace and bounce, posing challenges for the Kiwi batsmen. Stay tuned for the exciting conclusion of this thrilling encounter.