T20 World Cup 2021, Pakistan opted to bowl first against New Zealand. New Zealand had a slow but decent start, but the Sharjah pitch is very difficult to bat on. Guptill (17), Daryl (27), Williamson (25), Conway (27) had started well but they couldn’t capitalize. New Zealand kept losing wickets in regular intervals, they scored just 34 runs in the last 5 overs. No batter looked comfortable. Pakistan has one of the best bowling side in the T20 World Cup 2021.
Shaheen Afridi (1 for 21) with the new ball and Haris Rauf (4 for 22) towards the death overs help them restrict New Zealand for 134-8.
Babar and Rizwan started wisely before an off-cutter from Southee gets Babar (9). Pakistan has issues with its middle order. Sodhi took the wickets of Fakhar (11), Rizwan (33) and Pakistan was under pressure. But experienced Shoaib Malik (26) played a sensible inning and hold one end to stop the collapse. But a small cameo from Asif Ali (27 runs off 12 balls) was the game changer and help Pakistan beat New Zealand by 5 wickets. Pakistan has almost confirmed their position for semis. This is a strong statement from Pakistan for other teams.
Brilliant bowling from New Zealand, Southee (1 for 25) with the new ball, Sodhi (2 for 28) in middle over along with Santner (1 for 33). This loss for New Zealand means India vs New Zealand on Sunday (31st October) will be a virtual knockout.
