• Pakistan defeated New Zealand in the 5th T20I by 42 runs.

  • Iftikhar Ahmed earned the Player of the Match for his splendid bowling performance.

Twitter reactions: Iftikhar Ahmed’s sizzling bowling helps Pakistan beat New Zealand in 5th T20I to avoid series whitewash
Pakistan beat New Zealand in 5th T20I (Image Source: Twitter)

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Despite enduring four consecutive defeats, Pakistan found reason to celebrate at the conclusion of a challenging New Zealand tour. They successfully defended a modest total in the final T20I, securing a 42-run victory and preventing a whitewash. This win brought a positive end to a tough series for the Pakistani team.

New Zealand restrict Pakistan at a below-par total

Facing a challenging New Zealand bowling attack, Pakistan managed to post a total of 134/8 in their allotted 20 overs. Mohammad Rizwan contributed steadily with 38 off 38 balls. Fakhar Zaman showcased aggressive batting, scoring 33 off 16 deliveries, including four sixes.

The Black Caps bowlers, led by Tim Southee and Lockie Ferguson, claimed crucial wickets during Pakistan’s innings. Southee bagged 2 for 19 while Ferguson picked up a couple for 24. Ish Sodhi (2/22) and Matt Henry (2/30) also chipped in with 2 scalps each.

Iftikhar Ahmed traps hosts in his web of spin

Chasing the target, New Zealand struggled and were eventually bowled out for 92 runs in 17.2 overs. Iftikhar Ahmed played a crucial role in Pakistan’s bowling attack. The all-rounder delivered a notable bowling performance, securing three wickets for just 24 runs in his allotted four overs. Iftikhar’s ability to pick up key wickets, including important breakthroughs during the crucial middle overs, significantly impacted the course of the match.

Iftikhar’s disciplined and effective bowling restricted the New Zealand batting lineup, contributing significantly to Pakistan’s 42-run victory. His bowling performance was rightfully acknowledged, earning him the well-deserved title of the Player of the Match.

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AKSHAT GAUR
Akshat is the Sr. Content Strategist at CricketTimes.com. With a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for detail, Akshat has honed his skills over 6 years, working with various media outlets, publications, and organizations to deliver high-quality content that informs, educates, and entertains audiences. He is just another cricket fan who’s grown up watching the likes of Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid. Cricket runs in his veins. Cover drive is his favorite sight, and a ball meeting the middle of the bat is his favorite sound. You can write to him at akshat.gaur@crickettimes.com and follow him on Twitter, Facebook & Linkedin.