Pakistan vs New Zealand 2nd T20I: Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Amir Hunt In Pair For 1-0 Lead In Series

Pakistan vs New Zealand: Pakistan emerged victorious against New Zealand in the 2nd T20I with some command at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. The home team displayed exceptional prowess, securing a comfortable win by 7 wickets in a low-scoring match.

Shaheen Afridi led the Pakistan bowling line-up with a spell of 3/13 while Mohammad Amir, Abrar Ahmed and Shadab Khan took two wickets each to bowl out New Zealand for a mere 90 runs. Mohammad Rizwan's 45 not out later sealed the win.

New Zealand, opting to bat first after losing the toss, faced a relentless Pakistani bowling attack that tore through their batting lineup. Mark Chapman attempted to anchor the innings with a valiant 19 runs off 16 balls, but the onslaught led by Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Amir, and Shadab Khan proved too much for the Kiwi batsmen.

Afridi's fiery spell saw him scalping three crucial wickets for just 13 runs, while Amir and Shadab Khan contributed with two wickets each, restricting New Zealand to a paltry total of 90 runs in 18.1 overs.

Chasing a modest target, Pakistan's opening pair of Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam laid a solid foundation, setting the stage for a comfortable pursuit. Rizwan, in sublime touch, showcased his class with an unbeaten 45 runs off 34 deliveries, steering Pakistan towards victory.

Irfan Khan provided steady support with an unbeaten 18 runs off 18 balls, ensuring there were no hiccups in the chase. Despite a minor scare with the loss of Babar Azam and a couple of quick wickets, Pakistan cruised to the target in just 12.1 overs, sealing the win with ease.

New Zealand's bowlers tried to apply pressure, with Ben Lister and Ish Sodhi picking up a wicket each, but their efforts fell short against Pakistan's determined batting lineup. Mohammad Rizwan's composed innings, coupled with contributions from Irfan Khan and Babar Azam, propelled Pakistan to victory, much to the delight of the home crowd.

With this triumph, Pakistan secures a 1-0 lead in the series, showcasing their dominance in the T20 format. However, difficult to read too much into the win given New Zealand are playing a second-string squad.