New Zealand secured a tight victory against the Pakistan Women’s Team by just one wicket, sealing the women’s ODI series in Christchurch. This win gives the home team an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. The final game will take place at the same venue on Monday.
In the pursuit of 221 runs, New Zealand managed to edge past their target with seven balls to spare, albeit losing nine wickets in the process.
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The home team seemed to have a firm grip on the game, cruising at 155-2 thanks to Suzie Bates and Maddy Green’s impressive 142-run partnership, ranking as New Zealand’s third-highest 3rd-wicket partnership in women’s ODIs.
Despite this, Pakistan fought back strongly, reducing New Zealand to 208-9. However, Lea Tahuhu’s composed 21 runs off 26 balls steered her side to victory in the end.
During Pakistan’s innings, they were bowled out for 220 runs within 50 overs. Despite a shaky start at 35-4, Fatima Sana, leading the team in Nida Dar’s absence, showcased resilience with an unbeaten 90, guiding her side to a respectable total.
Her innings included seven fours and a six. Natalia Pervaiz contributed 39 runs, while Najiha Alvi added 32.
Sophie Devine claimed three crucial wickets, supported by two each from Molly Penfold and Fran Jonas.
Recapping the series schedule:
3 Dec – 1st T20I, Dunedin (Pakistan women won against New Zealand women by seven wickets)
5 Dec – 2nd T20I, Dunedin (Pakistan women won against New Zealand women by 10 runs)
9 Dec – 3rd T20I, Queenstown (New Zealand women won against Pakistan women by six runs on DLS)
12 Dec – 1st ODI, Queenstown (New Zealand women won against Pakistan women by 131 runs)
15 Dec – 2nd ODI, Christchurch (New Zealand women won against Pakistan women by 1 wicket)
18 Dec – 3rd ODI, Christchurch (2pm local time) (ICC Women’s Championship)
