Pakistan vs New Zealand: Michael Vaughan feels Test cricket is alive and kicking

One of the most thrilling Test matches in recent times unfolded in Abu Dhabi as New Zealand clinched victory from the jaws of defeat, thanks to Pakistan’s collapse while chasing the mediocre target. The Kiwis have now taken a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. However, the former England cricketer Michael Vaughan was thrilled to witness the game and was happy that the longer format is alive and kicking.

Chasing 176, Pakistan didn’t start too well as they were reduced to 48-3 after an overnight score of 37-0. But Ish Sodhi and Ajaz Patel took three wickets in eight balls to make things difficult for the hosts. However, Asad Shafiq and Azhar Ali brought the chase back on track as they were in a comfortable position at 130-3. But with Neil Wagner getting the former’s wicket at the stroke of lunch, the Blackcaps were back into the game.

Babar Azam was run out as he fell soon after play resumed after being involved in an ugly mix-up with Azhar. With five wickets needed and 29 runs to win, Pakistan collapsed dramatically from a situation where they should have comfortably won the match. Azhar Ali’s fighting innings of 65 runs couldn’t prevent the loss of the Asian side as New Zealand won the thrilling Test match by just 4 runs.

Ajaz Patel was the unlikely hero for the visitors as the debutant scalped seven wickets in the game and more importantly picked a five-wicket haul in the second innings to script a sensational turnaround.

Vaughan highlights Pakistan‘s unpredictability

This dramatic New Zealand victory attracted a lot of attention from all sides and even Michael Vaughan wasn’t an exception. He highlighted the unpredictability of Pakistan and was delighted with the fact that the touring teams were managing to win the game. Also, the recent Test matches were extremely where Australia managed to eke out a draw while England triumphed sensationally in Sri Lanka.

Vaughan was happy that Test cricket is well and truly alive and believed that the sporting pitches are playing key role in the same.

Here’s his tweet:

Don’t you just love Pakistan Cricket .. so so unpredictable .. 130 for 3 needing a further 45 to win the Test & lose by 4 .. Test cricket is alive & kicking .. We have witnessed some great games over the last few months .. Pitches are the key ..

— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) November 19, 2018

~Written by Sarthak Karkhanis