Pakistan’s struggles deepened as New Zealand stormed to a five-wicket victory in the rain-shortened second T20I at the University Oval, taking a commanding 2-0 lead in the series. The hosts made light work of Pakistan’s 136-run target, sealing the win with 11 balls to spare.
Batting first, Pakistan faltered early with Hasan Nawaz falling for a second consecutive duck to Jacob Duffy. Agha Salman (46 off 28) and Shadab Khan (26 off 14) offered brief resistance, while late contributions from Shaheen Afridi (22) and Abdul Samad (11) pushed the total to 135. However, New Zealand’s bowling unit, led by Duffy, Ben Sears, Ish Sodhi, and Jimmy Neesham, kept Pakistan in check.
New Zealand’s chase was a masterclass in aggression. Tim Seifert (45 off 22) and Finn Allen (38 off 16) tore into Pakistan’s bowling with a 66-run opening stand. Despite some late breakthroughs, Mitchell Hay (21*) and captain Michael Bracewell calmly finished the job. Haris Rauf was the only standout for Pakistan, claiming two wickets.
With their backs against the wall, Pakistan must find answers before the third T20I on January 17 in Dunedin—or risk another humiliating series defeat.
