Image: New Zealand beat Pakistan by 84 runs in Hamilton / © ESPNcricinfo
With the win in the second ODI against Pakistan in Hamilton, New Zealand secured an 84-run victory to take a 2-0 lead in the series. The hosts posted a competitive 292/8 in 50 overs, powered by Mitchell Hay’s unbeaten 99 off 78 balls, which included seven fours and seven sixes. Muhammad Abbas contributed 41 runs, while Nick Kelly added 31 off 23 balls. Pakistan’s bowlers struggled, with Mohammad Wasim (2/78) and Sufiyan Muqeem (2/33) being the pick of the attack.
In response, Pakistan’s top order collapsed, losing five wickets for just 32 runs. Faheem Ashraf fought back with 73 off 80 balls, while Naseem Shah’s late fireworks (51 off 44) delayed the inevitable. However, Ben Sears’ brilliant 5/59, along with Jacob Duffy’s 3/35, ensured Pakistan was bowled out for 208 in 41.2 overs. Will O’Rourke and Nathan Smith also chipped in with a wicket each.
Hay was named Player of the Match for his outstanding all-round performance, which included four catches. New Zealand’s disciplined bowling and Pakistan’s fragile batting proved decisive, as the visitors now face a must-win situation in the final ODI to avoid a series whitewash.