New Zealand secures an 84-run victory over Pakistan in the second ODI at Hamilton, thus sealing the series.
Chasing a target of 293, Pakistan collapsed to a total of 208 runs in just 41.2 overs, largely due to an impressive performance by Ben Sears, who took 5 wickets for 59 runs.
The top order struggled significantly, finding themselves at 32 runs for 5 wickets down within the first six overs, with Abdullah Shafique scoring just 1 run, Babar Azam also at 1, and Imam-ul-Haq making only 3. Although there was some late resistance from Naseem Shah, who scored 51 runs off 44 balls, and Faheem Ashraf, who contributed 73 runs off 80 balls, their partnership for the 10th wicket was not enough to secure victory.
New Zealand win the second ODI of the three-match series by 84 runs.#NZvPAK | #BackTheBoysInGreen pic.twitter.com/L93cgYRGu4
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) April 2, 2025Sears dismantled Pakistan’s batting, dismissing Mohammad Rizwan (5) and Salman Agha (9), while Jacob Duffy (3/24), Will O’Rourke (1/19), and Nathan Smith chipped in. Haris Rauf retired hurt on 3, and Pakistan’s hopes faded with only Sufiyan Muqeem left. The top order’s collapse raised questions as Shah and Ashraf outshone their higher-ups. New Zealand’s disciplined bowling ensured a comprehensive win.
New Zealand scored 292 runs for the loss of 8 wickets, with Mitchell Hay leading the charge by remaining unbeaten on 99 runs off 78 balls, which included 7 fours and 7 sixes. Hay’s late innings boost, accumulating 82 runs in the final 10 overs, propelled New Zealand’s total despite losing wickets at regular intervals. Muhammad Abbas contributed with 41 runs off 66 balls, while Nick Kelly added 31 runs off 23 balls, Henry Nicholls scored 22, and Daryl Mitchell made 18 runs.
Pakistan’s bowlers faced challenges throughout the innings. Sufiyan Muqeem managed to take 2 wickets for 33 runs, while Mohammad Wasim conceded 78 runs for his two wickets. Additionally, extras, including 20 wides, cost Pakistan 32 runs, further complicating their chase, which they ultimately failed to meet.
Read: New Zealand Crush Pakistan by 73 Runs in 1st ODI at Napier
