New Zealand wrapped up their T20 series against Pakistan in dominant fashion, securing a commanding eight-wicket victory in the final match at Wellington. With this win, the Kiwis took the series 4-1, continuing their strong run at home.
Seifert’s Power-Packed Performance Seals the Deal
The star of the night was Tim Seifert, who delivered an electrifying 97-run knock off just 38 balls, ensuring New Zealand made light work of the 129-run target. He set the tone early, smashing 18 runs in the opening over bowled by Jahandad Khan and continued his onslaught with six fours and ten sixes throughout his innings.
Opening partner Finn Allen contributed a quick 27 off 12 balls, hammering five boundaries and a six before getting dismissed in the seventh over with New Zealand comfortably placed at 93-1.
Although Mark Chapman departed cheaply for three, Seifert and Daryl Mitchell (2*) finished the chase emphatically, as the hosts wrapped up the innings at 131-2.
Pakistan’s Batting Struggles Continue
Earlier in the match, Pakistan struggled with the bat, managing to post only 128-9 after being sent in to bat first. The visitors were in deep trouble at 52-5 before captain Salman Agha (51 off 39) and Shadab Khan (28 off 20) stitched together a crucial 54-run partnership for the sixth wicket.
New Zealand’s bowling attack proved too strong, with Jimmy Neesham leading the charge. He registered his first-ever five-wicket haul in T20 internationals, finishing with outstanding figures of 5-22 in his four-over spell.
Jacob Duffy (2-18) was also instrumental, dismissing Hasan Nawaz for a third duck in the series and removing Omair Yousuf early on. Will O’Rourke and Ben Sears kept the pressure on with their pace and bounce, leaving Pakistan struggling to build any momentum.
What’s Next?
With the T20 series wrapped up, both teams will now shift their focus to the upcoming ODI series, which kicks off in Napier on Saturday. Pakistan will be eager to bounce back, while New Zealand will aim to continue their dominance.
