In a captivating contest at Hagley Oval, New Zealand secured a nail-biting victory against Pakistan by a mere one wicket in the ICC Women’s Championship series. The win gives the White Ferns an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match ODI series.
Pakistan’s Strong Show:
Batting first, Pakistan faced early setbacks, but a resilient partnership between Natalia Parvaiz and captain Fatima Sana turned the tide. They crafted a crucial 90-run stand, and later, Sana partnered with Najiha Alvi, adding 65 runs for the sixth wicket. Sana’s brilliant unbeaten 90 off 104 deliveries led Pakistan to a competitive total of 220 all out in their 50 overs.
New Zealand’s Response:
Chasing 221, New Zealand found themselves in a precarious position at 13-2 before Suzie Bates and Maddy Green resurrected their innings with a formidable 142-run partnership. Ghulam Fatima’s exceptional bowling halted the White Ferns’ charge, grabbing four crucial wickets. As wickets tumbled, White Ferns were in a tough spot at 207-9.
A Thrilling Finish:
Lea Tahuhu and Fran Jonas held their nerve, forging an unbroken 13-run stand for the final wicket. Tahuhu’s unbeaten 21 and Jonas’ five not out sealed the thrilling one-wicket win for New Zealand with just three balls to spare.
Series Outlook:
Despite Pakistan’s determined performance, New Zealand’s nerve-wracking victory secures an unassailable lead in the series. The teams will meet for the final match of the series on 18th December at the same venue, Hagley Oval, Christchurch, in the highly anticipated ICC Women’s Championship encounter.
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