Pakistan collapse to their biggest T20I defeat as nine batters fall for single digits in a 115-run thrashing; New Zealand take unassailable series lead.
March 23, 2025: Mount Maunganui, New Zealand:
Pakistan hit rock bottom in T20 internationals, registering their worst-ever defeat by runs in the format as they were hammered by 115 runs by New Zealand in the fourth T20I at Bay Oval on Sunday.
Chasing a daunting 221-run target, Pakistan’s batting line-up imploded, folding for just 105 in 16.2 overs. The result handed New Zealand an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match series, despite the absence of several first-choice players now in India for IPL 2025.
It was New Zealand’s second-largest victory in T20Is, narrowly missing their 119-run win against the West Indies in 2018 — also at Bay Oval.
🔥 Pakistan’s Batting Collapse
Only Abdul Samad (44)* and Irfan Khan (24) managed to cross double digits as nine Pakistani batters failed to score more than 9. It was a chaotic collapse, with no signs of intent or maturity against a clinical Kiwi bowling attack.
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Jacob Duffy led the demolition with 4 wickets, while Zak Foulkes claimed 3 scalps to completely dismantle Pakistan’s top and middle order.
At one point, Pakistan were staring at the prospect of registering their lowest-ever T20I total when they slumped to 56/8. However, Samad’s resistance ensured they avoided breaching the 74-run low they posted against Australia in 2012.
🚀 Blackcaps Dominate With the Bat
Earlier, Finn Allen set the tone with a blistering 50 off just 20 balls, sharing a 59-run stand with Tim Seifert (44 off 22). Skipper Michael Bracewell added the finishing touches with a punishing 46 off 26 balls*, helping New Zealand post 220/7.
Despite a brief spark from Haris Rauf (3/27), the Kiwis crossed the 200-mark for the third time in this series, underlining their dominance over the visitors.
📉 Historic Lows for Pakistan
- Biggest T20I defeat (by runs) – 115-run loss (Previous: 95 vs NZ in 2016)
- Second record loss in the same series – Pakistan were bowled out for 91 in the opener, marking their worst T20I loss in terms of balls remaining (59).
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