Bracewell and Sears Shine as New Zealand Achieves 3-0 Sweep Over Pakistan
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Synopsis
In a thrilling third ODI, New Zealand triumphed over Pakistan by 43 runs, clinching a 3-0 series victory. Bracewell and Mariu's stellar performances led to a commanding total, while Sears' five-wicket haul sealed the match.
Key Takeaways
- New Zealand completed a 3-0 series clean sweep against Pakistan.
- Michael Bracewell scored a quickfire 59 runs.
- Ben Sears took 5 wickets for 34 runs.
- Rhys Mariu
- Pakistan's
Mount Maunganui, April 5 (NationPress) New Zealand showcased their supremacy over Pakistan with an impressive 43-run victory in the third ODI at Mount Maunganui, concluding the series with a 3-0 clean sweep.
Following a rain delay, the match was reduced to 42 overs per side. The hosts scored 264 runs, with significant contributions from Michael Bracewell and young talent Rhys Mariu. Despite getting off to decent starts, Pakistan struggled to keep pace and ended their innings at 221, with Ben Sears claiming another five-wicket haul.
After Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan won the toss for the third consecutive time, New Zealand faced early challenges but managed to recover through steady partnerships. Mariu scored 58, and he and Henry Nicholls built a solid 78-run partnership for the second wicket. Bracewell then launched a late innings attack, scoring 59 off just 40 balls, hitting six sixes, five of which came off Akif Javed, including three in the final two overs to provide a thrilling finish.
Pakistan's innings struggled to gain momentum. Imam-ul-Haq was carried off after a bizarre injury when a throw hit his helmet grill, leading to Usman Khan replacing him as a concussion substitute. Abdullah Shafique (33) and Babar Azam (50) attempted to stabilize the innings, but their slow run rate left Pakistan lagging behind. Sears dismissed Shafique and later tore through the lower order, wrapping up with figures of 5 for 34.
Bracewell also contributed with a spectacular diving catch, while Duffy and O’Rourke maintained pressure throughout the innings. Rizwan's quick 37 was the only significant moment of acceleration for Pakistan, but consistent wickets fell, thwarting their chase.
Summary of scores: New Zealand 264/8 in 42 overs (Michael Bracewell 59, Rhys Mariu 58; Akif Javed 4-62, Naseem Shah 2-54) defeated Pakistan 221 all out in 40 overs (Babar Azam 50, Mohammad Rizwan 37; Ben Sears 5-34, Jacob Duffy 2-40) by 43 runs.
