Second T20I: Pakistan's Captain Seeks 'Greater Powerplay Consistency' Following Loss to New Zealand
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Synopsis
In the second T20I against New Zealand, Pakistan's captain Agha Salman highlighted the team's challenges during the powerplay as a crucial element in their defeat. Despite a stronger performance, Pakistan fell short, with New Zealand winning by 11 balls. The series now stands at 2-0 in favor of New Zealand.
Key Takeaways
- Agha Salman emphasizes the need for improved powerplay performance.
- Pakistan posted 135/9, with Salman Ali Agha scoring 46 runs.
- New Zealand won by 11 balls, chasing the target in 13.1 overs.
- Haris Rauf took two wickets for Pakistan.
- The next match is scheduled for March 21 in Auckland.
Dunedin, March 18 (NationPress) Pakistan's captain Agha Salman acknowledged that their issues during the powerplay, both in batting and bowling, significantly contributed to their loss in the second T20I against New Zealand.
Despite performing better than in the first match, the visitors fell behind as New Zealand secured victory with 11 balls remaining.
After being asked to bat first, Pakistan could only muster 135/9, aided by a quickfire 46 off 28 balls from captain Salman Ali Agha, which included four boundaries and three sixes. In response, the opening pair of Tim Seifert (45) and Finn Allen (38) set a rapid 66-run partnership for the first wicket, allowing New Zealand to chase down the target in just 13.1 overs, losing five wickets along the way. For Pakistan, Haris Rauf took two wickets for 20 runs in three overs.
"It was a better performance than the previous match; there were many positives, but we need to improve in a few areas. We batted better, yet we need to enhance our finishing. The bowling showed promise, but we must strive for greater consistency. Understanding the bounce is crucial. After the powerplay, our bowling improved. We had good moments, but our powerplay bowling needs to be more reliable," Agha stated post-match.
"I believe the spinners bowled effectively, and then Haris delivered a solid performance. We excelled in certain segments, yet our powerplay bowling was lacking. We must enhance our powerplay performance in both batting and bowling, which is an area for improvement," he continued.
With this win, New Zealand now leads the five-match series 2-0. The next encounter, the third T20I, is scheduled for March 21 at Eden Park in Auckland.
