‘Could be dark 5-10 years of New Zealand cricket’ - Mitchell McClenaghan laments lack of match-winners in side after semi-final loss to Pakistan

Pakistan stunned the world as they are now on course to play the summit clash of the ICC T20 World Cup 2022 following their massive win against New Zealand in the semi-final fixture. Using the word ‘stunned’ would not be quite wrong considering their start to the competition as the side endured two consecutive losses to India and a shock defeat to Zimbabwe in the Super 12 stage.

On the other hand, the Kiwis were swiftly making progress in Group 1 with their display of sheer dominance handing massive defeats to rival sides. After Pakistan miraculously made it into the semi-finals, New Zealand were still touted to win the fixture and head for the finals. However, in an interesting turn of events, Pakistan outclassed the Kiwis by seven wickets and are now headed to the finals of the event.

BlackCaps pacer Mitchell McClenaghan has opined that the side lacks match winners and it could be a rough couple of years in their cricket.

"It was a wide-open tournament and it was one that I personally believe we should have won. I hope I’m wrong, but it could be a dark five to 10 years of New Zealand cricket. I just feel like we lack winners, we’re too nice,” said McClenaghan while speaking to SENZ Breakfast.

New Zealand rue another shot to grab an ICC trophy

New Zealand displayed sensational cricket right from the word ‘go’ but could not manage to go ahead of Pakistan when it mattered the most. However, the Kiwis are used to such a scenario as they always come close but have never been able to clinch the title in the ICC events. McClenaghan further stated that the side was favourites but was outplayed by Pakistan.

"I honestly believe that we were favourites after that first game against Australia; we should have been favourites to win this tournament after the way the other teams around the world were playing form-wise. But Pakistan were outstanding with the bat and certainly chased that down,” he added.