In the second T20I between New Zealand and Pakistan at Seddon Park, Hamilton, New Zealand set a target of 195 runs for Pakistan to chase. Finn Allen, a 24-year-old batsman, played exceptionally well, scoring 74 runs off 41 balls with seven fours and five sixes.
Allen’s strong start had New Zealand on track for a big score, reaching 137-2 in 13 overs. However, things changed after Allen was dismissed by Usama Mir’s delivery in the 13th over. Following his departure, New Zealand managed to add only 57 more runs in the remaining seven overs.
The Pakistani bowlers made a comeback in the game, restricting New Zealand to a total of 194 runs. Haris Rauf played a crucial role, taking three wickets in the 19th over and becoming Pakistan’s top wicket-taker in the match. All Pakistani bowlers, except skipper Shaheen Afridi, contributed with wickets.
Shaheen Afridi won the toss and chose to bowl first. Pakistan stuck with the same playing XI from the previous match, while New Zealand replaced Matt Henry with Mitchell Santner due to a last-minute injury.
With a 1-0 lead in the five-match T20I series, New Zealand is in a good position.
Schedule of remaining matches
- 3rd T20: 17 January 2024 at University Oval, Dunedin
- 4th T20: 19 January 2024 at Hagley Oval, Christchurch
- 5th T20: 21 January 2024 at Hagley Oval, Christchurch
