New Zealand secured a dominant 115-run victory over Pakistan in the fourth T20 match at Mount Maunganui, sealing the five-match series with a 3-1 lead. The hosts displayed a ruthless bowling performance, handing Pakistan their biggest-ever defeat in T20 cricket. This loss eclipsed Pakistan’s previous worst defeat by runs—a 95-run loss against New Zealand in Wellington in 2016.
New Zealand’s Explosive Batting Sets the Tone
Batting first, New Zealand posted an imposing 220-6. Finn Allen led the charge with a blistering 50 off just 20 balls, setting the momentum for a high-scoring game. His aggressive opening partnership with Tim Seifert produced 59 runs in quick time. Seifert contributed 44 off 22 balls, maintaining the scoring pressure.
Skipper Michael Bracewell played a crucial role in the latter half of the innings, smashing an unbeaten 46 off 26 balls. Despite Pakistan’s Haris Rauf taking 3-27, New Zealand’s relentless attack ensured a daunting total.
Read: Pakistan Aim to Maintain Momentum in T20I Series
Pakistan’s Batting Collapses Under Pressure
Chasing 221, Pakistan crumbled under New Zealand’s fierce pace attack. Jacob Duffy (4-20) and Zak Foulkes (3-25) dismantled Pakistan’s top order, reducing them to 9-3 within two overs. The collapse began with opener Hasan Nawaz, who fell for just one run, a stark contrast to his match-winning century in the previous game.
At 56-8, Pakistan faced the embarrassment of an even lower total, but Abdul Samad (44 off 30 balls) provided some resistance. Irfan Khan added 24 runs, but no other batsman reached double figures. Pakistan was bowled out for 105 in just 17 overs, sealing a historic defeat.
A Record-Breaking Win for New Zealand
This victory marked New Zealand’s second-largest T20 win by runs, just short of their 119-run victory against the West Indies in 2018 at the same venue. The home team’s all-round performance showcased their dominance, with both bat and ball overpowering a struggling Pakistan side.
Series Finale in Wellington
With the series now in New Zealand’s favor, both teams will head to Wellington for the fifth and final T20 match on Wednesday. Pakistan will look to salvage some pride, while New Zealand aims to finish with another emphatic performance.
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