New Zealand delivered a well-rounded performance to secure a convincing five-wicket win over Pakistan in the Tri-Series final in Karachi. Pakistan’s decision to bat first, despite the venue’s chasing-friendly conditions, was a strategic experiment ahead of the upcoming Champions Trophy. However, the move backfired as New Zealand’s disciplined bowling unit, led by Will O’Rourke (4/43), Mitchell Santner (2/20), and Michael Bracewell (2/38), restricted Pakistan to a modest total of 242. In response, fifties from Daryl Mitchell and Tom Latham powered the Black Caps to victory with 28 balls to spare.

Pakistan Struggles on a Sluggish Surface

Unlike the high-scoring encounter against South Africa, where Pakistan successfully chased down a 350-plus total, the Karachi pitch for this game was drier and slower, favoring bowlers who varied their pace. Will O’Rourke set the tone early with an incisive new-ball spell, dismissing Fakhar Zaman with a soft chip to mid-wicket.

Babar Azam looked in fine touch, becoming the joint-fastest to 6000 ODI runs alongside Hashim Amla. However, his promising start ended with a tame return catch to Nathan Smith. Saud Shakeel, promoted to No. 3, failed to capitalize and was bowled by Bracewell’s sharp arm-ball.

With Pakistan reeling, Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha attempted to rebuild. However, the duo struggled for fluency on the sluggish track, failing to accelerate when needed. Rizwan, who labored through his innings, fell just after hitting a six, playing onto his stumps off O’Rourke. Salman followed soon after, misjudging an attacking shot against Bracewell.

Pakistan’s lower order, featuring Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, and Naseem Shah, chipped in with handy cameos to push the total to 242. New Zealand were slightly sloppy in the field towards the end, but their overall bowling performance ensured a manageable chase.

New Zealand’s Chase: Mitchell and Latham Seal the Win

With dew not playing a major role, Pakistan’s pace attack found early movement. Naseem Shah struck in the powerplay, trapping Will Young lbw with a sharp inswinger. Kane Williamson (34) and Devon Conway (48) steadied the innings with a 71-run stand, though Conway struggled for fluency. Williamson looked comfortable but was dismissed by Salman, breaking the partnership at a crucial stage.

At 108/3, the game was evenly poised. However, Mitchell (57) and Latham (56) stitched together an 87-run stand, putting New Zealand firmly in control. Pakistan had their chances, but missed catches and a run-out opportunity proved costly. Despite neither batter finishing the chase, their contributions ensured a smooth victory. Michael Bracewell and Glenn Phillips applied the finishing touches, guiding New Zealand home in 45.2 overs.

Brief Scores:

Pakistan: 242 in 49.3 overs (Mohammad Rizwan 46; Will O’Rourke 4/43, Mitchell Santner 2/20, Michael Bracewell 2/38)
New Zealand: 243/5 in 45.2 overs (Daryl Mitchell 57, Tom Latham 56; Naseem Shah 2/43)

Result: New Zealand won by five wickets.