Pakistan secured a 2-0 lead in the five-match series after defeating New Zealand by 38 runs in the second T20 International at Gaddafi Stadium Lahore on Saturday. New Zealand reached 154-7 in 20 overs, with Mark Chapman being the standout performer, scoring 65 runs off 40 balls.
When choosing to bat first, Pakistan scored 192-4 in their 20 overs, with captain Babar Azam contributing an impressive unbeaten century featuring 11 fours and three sixes. Openers Mohammad Rizwan and Azam established a strong foundation for Pakistan with a 99-run partnership for the first wicket. In response, New Zealand could only manage 154-7 in 20 overs, with Chapman being the only batsman to make a significant impact.
Haris Rauf was the star bowler for Pakistan, claiming four wickets for 27 runs in four overs. The series now stands at 2-0 in Pakistan’s favor, following their win in the first T20I at the same venue.
New Zealand made two changes for the second T20I because eight players were unavailable for selection due to their commitments in the Indian Premier League. Henry Shipley replaced Adam Milne, and Cole McConchie took Ish Sodhi’s place, who was sidelined with a calf issue. Pakistan’s lineup remained unchanged.
With Kane Williamson out due to a knee injury, Tom Latham took over as captain for New Zealand, creating opportunities for new talent to emerge. The remaining three T20 matches of the series will take place on April 17 in Lahore and April 20 and 24 in Rawalpindi.
Following the T20 series, Pakistan and New Zealand will compete in five one-day internationals in preparation for the 50-over World Cup in India. Due to security concerns, this tour compensates for New Zealand’s withdrawal from their scheduled visit to Pakistan in September 2021. However, the team played two Tests and three ODIs in Pakistan three months prior.
Azam expressed his happiness with his performance in the match, praising his partnerships and his team’s bowling. Despite a strong start, New Zealand’s run chase faltered as the required run rate increased. However, Latham acknowledged Azam’s skillful performance: “When Babar plays like that, you tip your hat off.”
Azam’s century, which included 11 fours and three sixes, makes him only the sixth batter to achieve three T20I centuries in international cricket. He formed a 99-run partnership with Mohammad Rizwan and an 87-run partnership with Iftikhar Ahmed.
