The finals of the Tri-series between Pakistan and New Zealand in Karachi have started disappointingly for the home fans, as Pakistan was bowled out for just 242 runs in 49 overs. Pakistan was expected to be the favorites to win this final, but their first innings score fell short against the in-form New Zealand batters. Here is a brief review of Pakistan’s lack-luster performance in their first innings.
Mohammed Rizwan won the toss and chose to bat first to set a target in the big final. As the innings began, Pakistani openers Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam took to the crease. Unfortunately for the home team, the Kiwi bowlers were precise with their line and length, which troubled the openers and led to the first wicket, with William O’Rourke dismissing the in-form Fakhar Zaman. New Zealand maintained control during the powerplay, taking two wickets for just 48 runs in the first ten overs.
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Babar Azam looked comfortable while other batters struggled to score, but his promising start was cut short when Nathan Smith dismissed him for 29 runs off 34 balls, leaving Pakistan at 54 for 3 after just 12 overs. Mohammed Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha managed to rescue Pakistan from a precarious situation, but both were dismissed before reaching half-centuries.
Tayyab Tahir’s inclusion proved crucial as he played a quick innings to raise the scoring rate in the middle, but once again, his innings were halted by the Kiwi bowlers. With contributions from the lower order, Pakistan ended up with a total of 242 runs, marking their lowest first innings score of the tournament.
Pakistan's batters faced difficulties from the very first ball, while New Zealand's bowlers especially William O'Rourke with his 4/43 executed his plans effectively , avoiding loose deliveries and taking wickets at regular intervals—showing a superior performance throughout the series. With a target of 243 runs set, the New Zealand batters will be quite pleased. Now, it’s up to their batting line-up to chase down the target, although it could still become tricky if Pakistan can take quick wickets during the powerplay.
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