Pakistan suffered an 84-run defeat against New Zealand in the second ODI at Seddon Park, handing the hosts an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. Chasing 293, Pakistan’s batting lineup collapsed under pressure, getting bowled out for 208 in 41.2 overs.
The top order crumbled early, with Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, and Babar Azam dismissed cheaply. Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Agha also failed to make an impact as Pakistan struggled at 65-5. Despite Faheem Ashraf’s fighting 73 and Naseem Shah’s maiden ODI fifty, the team fell short.
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New Zealand’s disciplined bowling and key partnerships in the middle order set up their total of 292. Reflecting on the loss, captain Mohammad Rizwan admitted the team couldn’t counter the Kiwi attack effectively. “We didn’t utilise the swing properly, and New Zealand bowled very well,” he said post-match.
This defeat follows Pakistan’s 73-run loss in the first ODI, where Mark Chapman’s century and Nathan Smith’s four-wicket haul sealed victory for New Zealand. With the hosts already securing the T20I series 4-1, Pakistan will aim to salvage pride in the final ODI in Tauranga.
