Tim Siefert delivered a dazzling performance with an unbeaten 97, leading New Zealand to a resounding victory over Pakistan in the final clash of the five-match T20 series.
Pakistan’s bowlers struggled with high economy rates in the conclusive T20. Jahandad Khan conceded 43 runs in his two overs at an economy of 21.5, Shadab Khan allowed 33 runs in the same number of overs with an economy of 16.5, while Muhammad Ali and Haris Rauf gave away 27 and 22 runs respectively in their two-over spells. Sufiyan Muqeem stood out with a stellar performance, claiming two wickets for just six runs in his two overs.
The Pakistani batting lineup faltered once more, failing to set a substantial target in the series’ decisive T20 International.
In Wellington Regional Stadium, New Zealand won the toss and opted to field first in the fifth T20I.
Pakistan’s innings concluded at 128 for nine wickets, hindered by the constant loss of wickets. Captain Salman Ali Agha maintained his fine form, reaching a half-century before being dismissed for 51. Vice-captain Shadab Khan added 28 runs, and Mohammad Haris contributed 11.
Beyond these contributions, no other Pakistani batsman could achieve double digits.
James Neesham was exceptional with the ball, securing his first T20 five-wicket haul. Jacob Duffy took two wickets, while Ish Sodhi and Ben Sears each captured one.
In a bid to recover from their previous three defeats in the series, the visitors made five changes to their playing XI.
Shaheen Afridi, Irfan Khan Niazi, Khushdil Shah, Abbas Afridi, and Abrar Ahmed were replaced by Omair Bin Yousuf, Usman Khan, Jahandad Khan, and Sufiyan Muqeem.