Duffy, Foulkes Star as New Zealand Crush Pakistan by 115 Runs to Seal T20I Series

Mount Maunganui [New Zealand], March 23: New Zealand produced a clinical all-round performance to thrash Pakistan by 115 runs in the fourth T20I at the Bay Oval, securing a commanding 4-1 series win in the five-match contest.

Chasing a daunting target of 221 runs, Pakistan’s batting crumbled under pressure as they were bowled out for just 105 runs in 16.2 overs. Only Abdul Samad (44 off 30) and Irfan Khan (24 off 16) offered any resistance with the bat. The rest of the batting line-up, including Mohammad Haris, Hasan Nawaz, captain Salman Agha, Khushdil Shah, and Shadab Khan, failed to cross double figures.

New Zealand’s bowling was led by an outstanding spell from Jacob Duffy, who took 4 wickets for 20 runs in his four overs. He was ably supported by Zakary Foulkes, who returned figures of 3/25 to further dent Pakistan’s hopes.

Earlier, batting first, New Zealand piled on a massive 220/6 in their 20 overs. Finn Allen set the tone with a blistering 50 off 20 balls, smashing six fours and three sixes. Contributions also came from *Michael Bracewell (46 off 26)**, Tim Seifert (44 off 22), and Daryl Mitchell (29 off 23), ensuring the hosts crossed the 200-run mark comfortably.

For Pakistan, Haris Rauf was the pick of the bowlers with 3/27, while Abrar Ahmed (2/41) and Abbas Afridi (1/38) chipped in with wickets.

With this win, the Black Caps have taken an unassailable lead in the series. The fifth and final T20I will be played in Wellington on Wednesday, March 27.