New Zealand National Cricket Team vs Pakistan National Cricket Team Match Scorecard: Full Breakdown and Highlights

At a Glance

The clash between the New Zealand national cricket team and the Pakistan national cricket team delivered a thrilling encounter packed with memorable performances, game-changing moments, and a detailed scorecard that cricket fans won’t forget anytime soon. From power-packed centuries to jaw-dropping spells of bowling, this match had everything that defines a modern-day cricket spectacle.

The New Zealand national cricket team vs Pakistan national cricket team match scorecard revealed a high-stakes contest that swung both ways before a dramatic conclusion. Cricket fans worldwide witnessed an electrifying match filled with edge-of-the-seat moments, impactful partnerships, and individual brilliance. Whether you’re a fan of batting fireworks or tactical bowling, this match had it all.

Pre-Match Expectations and Build-up

Anticipation was sky-high before the game, as both teams came into the contest with strong recent performances. Pakistan’s top order had shown consistency, while New Zealand’s fast bowlers were in sublime form. The match, hosted at a neutral venue, created a level playing field, adding to the intrigue. Pundits predicted a nail-biter, and the teams did not disappoint.

Fans were particularly eager to see the battle between Shaheen Afridi and Devon Conway, as well as the middle-order resilience of Mohammad Rizwan versus New Zealand’s spin duo. Team strategies were carefully crafted, considering pitch conditions and past records.

Toss and Team Line-ups

The toss was won by Pakistan, who opted to bat first on a pitch expected to get slower as the game progressed. Both teams fielded strong XIs, focusing on balance and form.

Pakistan Playing XI:

1. Babar Azam (c)

2. Mohammad Rizwan (wk)

3. Fakhar Zaman

4. Iftikhar Ahmed

5. Shadab Khan

6. Imad Wasim

7. Mohammad Nawaz

8. Shaheen Afridi

9. Haris Rauf

10. Naseem Shah

11. Usama Mir

New Zealand Playing XI:

1. Devon Conway

2. Finn Allen

3. Kane Williamson (c)

4. Daryl Mitchell

5. Glenn Phillips

6. Tom Latham (wk)

7. Michael Bracewell

8. Mitchell Santner

9. Tim Southee

10. Matt Henry

11. Lockie Ferguson

Pakistan’s First Innings – A Solid Batting Display

Batting first, Pakistan put up a strong total of 289 runs in 50 overs. Babar Azam led from the front with a graceful 91 off 103 balls, holding the innings together. He was ably supported by Mohammad Rizwan, who added 62 runs off 59 balls in a counter-attacking knock that stabilized the innings after early jitters.

Fakhar Zaman added a brisk 41 before falling to a sharp catch in the deep, while Shadab Khan’s quick-fire 33 off 20 provided the necessary late-innings acceleration.

Among the Kiwi bowlers, Matt Henry and Tim Southee were the most effective, picking up two wickets each and maintaining decent economy rates. However, some late-innings hitting from the Pakistani lower order ensured a competitive total.

Pakistan Innings Summary:

• Babar Azam – 91 (103)

• Mohammad Rizwan – 62 (59)

• Fakhar Zaman – 41 (36)

• Shadab Khan – 33 (20)

• Total: 289/8 in 50 overs

• Top NZ Bowlers: Matt Henry (2/46), Tim Southee (2/54)

New Zealand’s Chase – A Game of Momentum Swings

The New Zealand national cricket team approached the chase with caution and calculation. Devon Conway and Finn Allen got off to a decent start, adding 56 for the first wicket. However, a flurry of wickets in the middle overs tilted the momentum in Pakistan’s favor.

Kane Williamson anchored the innings with a well-crafted 74, but a brilliant spell from Shaheen Afridi, who removed Conway and Mitchell in successive overs, brought Pakistan roaring back.

Tom Latham and Glenn Phillips tried to rebuild, but tight bowling from Nawaz and Shadab created scoreboard pressure. A late charge by Mitchell Santner (37* off 28) brought some excitement, but the required run rate proved too steep in the end.

New Zealand were eventually bowled out for 267 in 48.4 overs, falling short by 22 runs.

New Zealand Innings Summary:

• Kane Williamson – 74 (84)

• Devon Conway – 48 (55)

• Mitchell Santner – 37* (28)

• Total: 267 all out in 48.4 overs

• Top Pakistan Bowlers: Shaheen Afridi (3/45), Shadab Khan (2/44), Mohammad Nawaz (2/36)

Full New Zealand National Cricket Team vs Pakistan National Cricket Team Match Scorecard

Pakistan Batting:

New Zealand Bowling:

New Zealand Batting:

Pakistan Bowling:

Player of the Match: Babar Azam

For his composed 91 under pressure and role in building a platform for his team, Babar Azam was named Player of the Match. His ability to rotate strike and control the pace of the innings proved decisive.

Key Turning Points of the Match

• Shaheen Afridi’s double strike in the middle overs, removing set batsmen, changed the trajectory of the match.

• Shadab Khan’s late cameo gave Pakistan crucial extra runs in the death overs.

• New Zealand’s collapse between overs 30–40 left them playing catch-up with the run rate.

Head-to-Head Stats Overview

This match added another exciting chapter to the rich history of contests between these two cricketing nations. With this win, Pakistan slightly narrowed the gap in head-to-head records.

• ODIs Played: 115

• New Zealand Wins: 60

• Pakistan Wins: 52

• No Result: 3

Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz

The New Zealand national cricket team vs Pakistan national cricket team match scorecard quickly trended across platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Reddit. Fans praised the sportsmanship, the high skill level, and the sheer drama of the contest. Babar’s innings and Shaheen’s bowling were top topics of discussion, while Williamson’s calm presence also drew admiration.

Final Thoughts

The encounter between the New Zealand national cricket team and the Pakistan national cricket team was everything a cricket fan could hope for—competitive, entertaining, and full of moments to remember. The scorecard tells one story, but the energy, intensity, and heart shown by both sides told another.

This match not only tightened the race between the two sides historically but also reminded the cricketing world why this rivalry continues to grow in prestige. With both teams set to face off again in upcoming fixtures, fans can expect more cricketing fireworks and match scorecards worth revisiting.

Stay tuned for more updates, in-depth analyses, and full scorecard reviews of international cricket action.