Twitter Reaction: New Zealand Women outfox Pakistan by whisker in 2nd ODI to clinch series
New Zealand Women defeated Pakistan Women by 1 wicket in the second ODI.
In a riveting clash at Hagley Oval, Christchurch, the Pakistan Women's team faced off against New Zealand Women in the 2nd ODI. With Pakistan missing their captain Nida Dar due to injury and subsequent rest following a concussion from the previous game, they entered the match with a chink in their armour. Reflecting on the first match, Pakistan found themselves outplayed by the formidable White Ferns in all aspects of the game.
The pursuit of a challenging 366-run target saw a promising start by Pakistan, courtesy of openers Muneeba Ali and Sidra Ameen. Their robust 110-run partnership set a new record, surpassing the previous 84-run milestone set against the White Ferns back in 2016 by Ayesha Zafar and Nahida Khan. Sidra Ameen's impressive 105 off 117 deliveries, studded with 12 boundaries, highlighted Pakistan's innings, but they ultimately succumbed, being bowled out for 234 in the final over.
Moving on to the second ODI, with Nida Dar sidelined, Fatima Sana shouldered the captaincy responsibilities and joined New Zealand captain Sophie Devine for the toss. Opting to bowl first on what seemed a tricky pitch for batting, New Zealand struck early as Muneeba Ali fell to Lea Tahuhu in the first ball of the opening over. The loss of Sidra Ameen, who couldn't hold on for long against Hannah Rowe, left Pakistan reeling at 35 for 4.
Fatima Sana's gritty innings in vain as Suzie Bates, Maddy Green take White Ferns home
However, stepping into the breach, newly appointed captain Fatima Sana forged a remarkable partnership with Natalia Pervaiz. Sana's resilient 90, supported by Najiha Alvi's 32, helped Pakistan set a competitive total of 220. For New Zealand, Sophie Devine picked 3 wickets whereas Fran Jonas plucked 2. In pursuit of the target, New Zealand faced early setbacks with the dismissals of Amelia Kerr and Sophie Devine.
Yet, Suzie Bates steadied the ship with a patient 74 off 91 deliveries. Despite Ghulam Fatima's impressive 4/47, Maddy Green's steadfast 83 off 96 stood as a bulwark for the White Ferns. Lea Tahuhu's all-around contribution, including a crucial hand with the bat, ensured New Zealand clinched victory by a whisker, with one wicket remaining and therfore, clinching the series.
Here's how 'X' users reacted to New Zealand's win against Pakistan:
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