PAK vs NZ [WATCH]: Shadab Khan takes a screamer to dismiss Mark Chapman in the 4th T20I

Pakistan and New Zealand are taking on each other in the fourth T20I at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Pakistan captain Babar Azam won the toss and opted to field first. The Black Caps did well to post a competitive total on the board.

Shadab Khan takes a blinder

The moment that will be etched in the memories of fans worldwide came courtesy of Shadab Khan, Pakistan’s dynamic all-rounder, and a maestro in the field. As New Zealand aimed to build a formidable total, Mark Chapman, one of their key batters, looked to launch an assault on the Pakistan bowlers. However, fate had other plans as Iftikhar Ahmed delivered a teasing delivery just outside off-stump.

Chapman, lured by the opportunity, attempted to pierce the field, but his aspirations were shattered by Shadab’s sheer brilliance. Positioned strategically at cover, Shadab catapulted into the air, defying gravity, and plucked the ball with a combination of agility, timing, and sheer determination. The stadium erupted in awe as Shadab’s gravity-defying catch left both teammates and opponents spellbound, a testament to his extraordinary athleticism and commitment to excellence.

Here is the video:

SHADAB PULLS OFF A STUNNING CATCH 😱

Iftikhar gets his first of the night as the dangerous Chapman departs ☝️#PAKvNZ | #AaTenuMatchDikhawan pic.twitter.com/uu1ixYn5Ta

— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) April 25, 2024

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Tim Robinson’s masterclass

Amidst the theatrics of Shadab’s catch, the Black Caps’ batters showcased their prowess, led by the stylish opener, Tim Robinson. Displaying a blend of elegance and aggression, Robinson mesmerized the crowd with a scintillating knock.

With effortless timing and impeccable technique, the 21-year-old dispatched the Pakistan bowlers to all corners of the ground, accumulating runs at a brisk pace. His innings of 51 runs off just 36 deliveries, embellished with four boundaries and two towering sixes, provided the impetus New Zealand needed to post a competitive total.

Contributions from other batters

While Robinson’s innings stole the spotlight, contributions from Dean Foxcroft, Tom Blundell, and Michael Bracewell bolstered New Zealand’s batting effort. Foxcroft’s fluent strokeplay yielded 34 runs off 26 balls, while Blundell’s cameo of 28 runs off 15 deliveries and Bracewell’s brisk 27 off 20 balls ensured that New Zealand reached a commendable total of 178/7 at the end of their allotted 20 overs.

Abbas Afridi’s heroics for Pakistan

In the face of New Zealand’s onslaught, Pakistan found solace in the performance of young pacer Abbas Afridi. Displaying maturity beyond his years, Afridi showcased his ability to strike crucial blows, claiming three wickets for a mere 20 runs in his allotted three overs.

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