Bracewell Expresses Joy After New Zealand’s 3-0 ODI Series Win Against Pakistan

April 5, 2025: Ben Sears’s remarkable second consecutive five-wicket haul powered New Zealand to a dominant 43-run victory in the third ODI, completing a 3-0 series sweep over Pakistan at Bay Oval on Saturday. Sears’s clinical performance was crucial in securing Pakistan’s downfall, as they were bowled out for 221 in their chase of 265, leaving the series firmly in the hands of the Black Caps.

New Zealand’s captain Michael Bracewell expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance throughout the series, especially in integrating new players into the lineup. He emphasized the importance of maintaining their playing style and focusing on small details that contributed to their comprehensive victory.

“When you add a few new guys into the mix, you always want to do well. Pleasing to win 3-0 as it is to see guys coming in and performing and doing all they are asked off and playing the way that we want to play. As a Black Caps unit, we have a clear style about how we want to play and the little things that could probably go unnoticed to a lot of people. We want to make sure that we nail those things, and I feel like we have done that in this series,” said Bracewell in the post-match presentation.

The skipper was particularly vocal about the contributions from New Zealand’s pace attack, which was led by young bowlers Jacob Duffy, Ben Sears, and Will O’Rourke. Their ability to bowl fast, aggressive spells and extract bounce from sporting wickets was instrumental in the team’s success. Bracewell praised their adaptability and the calmness with which they executed their plans, especially under pressure.

“It was pretty amazing to watch them on some pretty sporting wickets, but that takes nothing away from the way they bowled. They were fast and aggressive and used their height and bounce, which was outstanding. Amazing to see the young crop come through led by Jacob Duffy and Ben Sears and Will O’Rourke. It was great to see different guys step up at different times. We stayed nice and calm. We just found a way to get ourselves to an above-par total, and then the way that the bowlers bowled, it was always going to be enough,” Bracewell added.

Batting first, New Zealand posted a competitive total of 264/8 in a 42-over-reduced game due to a wet outfield. The Pakistan chase fell short as they were dismissed for 221 in 40 overs. Bracewell’s well-paced half-century and a crucial wicket earned him the Player of the Match award, while the team sealed their 3-0 series victory, confirming their dominance in the series.

With this commanding whitewash, New Zealand’s confidence is high as they look ahead to future challenges, with their blend of experienced players and young talent making a strong statement on the international stage.