Pakistan’s spinners orchestrated a stunning comeback in the fifth and final Twenty20 international against New Zealand on Sunday, clinching a consolation 42-run win to salvage pride after losing the series 4-1.
The turning point came as part-time offspinner Iftikhar Ahmed delivered a career-best performance, claiming 3-24. New Zealand, missing key batters due to injuries and rest, struggled against the turning ball and were dismissed for a mere 92 in response to Pakistan’s 134-8.
Opener Finn Allen (22) and Glenn Phillips (26) were the only New Zealand batsmen to surpass 20, as Pakistan’s bowlers dominated, taking the last eight wickets for just 39 runs. Left-arm spinner Mohammad Nawaz (2-18) and captain Shaheen Shah Afridi (2-20) played pivotal roles in the comprehensive bowling display.
Despite missing key players like Kane Williamson, Devon Conway, and Daryl Mitchell, New Zealand’s disciplined bowling initially limited Pakistan’s batters. Tim Southee (2-19), Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson, and Ish Sodhi claimed crucial wickets, restricting Pakistan to their lowest first-innings score in the series.
The contest featured standout performances, with Southee removing debutant Haseebullah Khan in the opening over and later dismissing the aggressive Fakhar Zaman, who had scored 33 off 16 balls. Mohammad Rizwan, the top-scorer for Pakistan, contributed 38 off 38 balls before departing.
The victory in the final T20 provided a positive conclusion for Pakistan, showcasing their resilience in the face of adversity. The series may have been lost, but the spirited performance in the last match leaves a glimmer of optimism for the team moving forward.
