Captain Shaheen Shah Afridi expressed relief as Pakistan secured a crucial victory in the final Twenty20 International (T20I) of the five-match series against New Zealand, avoiding a whitewash after losing the series 4-1. The Black Caps, expected to chase down Pakistan’s total of 134-8, collapsed for 92 against Pakistan’s quality spin bowling.

Despite the series loss, Shaheen viewed the final game as crucial for team unity and building momentum towards the T20 World Cup in June. He acknowledged the challenges faced in the first four games but highlighted the significance of ending the series on a positive note.

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The match saw part-time off-spinner Iftikhar Ahmed delivering a career-best performance of 3-24 against a depleted New Zealand batting lineup, missing key players like Kane Williamson, Devon Conway, and Daryl Mitchell. Pakistan’s left-arm spinner Mohammad Nawaz and captain Shaheen also contributed with the ball.

Reflecting on the series, New Zealand’s Captain Mitchell Santner acknowledged the team’s need to work on their chasing abilities. Despite the loss, he pointed out positive signs with different players stepping up at various times during the series.

In the earlier part of the game, New Zealand’s disciplined bowling, led by seamers Tim Southee, Matt Henry, and Lockie Ferguson, along with spinner Ish Sodhi, appeared to set the stage for a clean sweep. Veteran Southee made an impact by dismissing debutant Haseebullah Khan and later removing the dangerous Fakhar Zaman.

As both teams look ahead, New Zealand is set to face South Africa in a Two-Test home series, while Pakistan’s upcoming international fixtures include five T20s at home against New Zealand in April.