Afridi, Amir shines as Pakistan outplay depleted New Zealand in second T20

Left-arm pacers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Mohammad Amir took five wickets between them to jolt New Zealand, holding them to a mere 90 runs. Mohammad Rizwan then steered the pursuit, ensuring Pakistan secured a victory in the second Twenty20 game on Saturday in Rawalpindi.

Shaheen spearheaded the bowling with figures of 3 for 13. Amir, making a comeback to the international scene after a hiatus of almost four years, contributed with 2 for 13, as the touring team was dismissed in just 18.1 overs following their decision to bat first.

Rizwan remained unbeaten at 45 runs from 34 balls, hitting a six and four fours, guiding Pakistan to chase a modest target in 12.1 overs. Their victory was by seven wickets, taking a 1-0 lead in the five-match series.
The first game, also in Rawalpindi, ended without result after rain stopped play following just two balls on Thursday.

New Zealand counterattacked, taking out Saim Ayub for four, Babar Azam at 14, and newcomer Usman Khan at seven runs. However, Muhammad Irfan Khan, with 18 runs off as many balls, and Rizwan formed a solid partnership that added 36 runs to secure the win without further loss.

Ayub struck the first delivery of the game for four, only to be caught on the next ball by fast bowler Ben Lister. Azam was then stumped by opposing captain Michael Bracewell, and Usman was dismissed by spinner Ish Sodhi.

Azam praised his bowlers for setting up the victory.

He emphasized the importance of starting strong in the first six overs at Pindi Stadium, in front of a full house of 16,000 spectators on the weekend. Azam commended the outstanding bowling by Naseem, Shaheen, and Amir, which allowed them to take early wickets.

Bracewell acknowledged their insufficient batting.

Bracewell admitted they didn’t post enough runs and were slow to adjust to the pitch, putting themselves in a tough spot. With another game the following day, he recognized the necessity for quick learning.

Amir, marking his return to international play after almost four years, unsettled New Zealand’s openers early in the game.