New Zealand vs Pakistan, 2nd T20I: Salman Agha Fights Back After Early Collapse
Pakistan and New Zealand faced off in the 2nd T20I in Christchurch, and it turned out to be another action-packed encounter. After a disappointing performance in the first T20I, Pakistan aimed for a comeback. However, their "high-risk" approach once again got them into trouble, as they struggled against the Kiwi bowling attack.
Early Collapse for Pakistan
Pakistan got off to a disastrous start after being put in to bat first by New Zealand skipper Michael Bracewell. The opening pair of Mohammad Haris and Hasan Nawaz failed to provide a solid foundation. Jacob Duffy struck in the very first over, dismissing Nawaz for a duck. The visitors were 1/1, putting them under immediate pressure.
Haris tried to counterattack but fell to Ben Sears in the third over. His top edge flew straight into the hands of Duffy at third man. With Pakistan at 19/2, their innings was already in disarray.
Agha and Irfan's Brief Resistance
Captain Salman Agha tried to stabilize the innings alongside Irfan Khan. The duo managed to build a small partnership, but Ish Sodhi's crafty bowling soon ended it. Irfan miscued a loopy delivery, and the catch was comfortably taken. Pakistan were left reeling at 50/3 after 6.4 overs.
Khushdil's Struggles and Salman’s Lone Fight
Khushdil Shah came in with hopes of building a partnership, but he couldn't resist Sodhi's sharp spin. The wrist-spinner caught the edge with a brilliant googly, sending Khushdil back to the pavilion. With two wickets in the over, Sodhi put Pakistan in serious trouble.
Despite the wickets tumbling around him, skipper Salman Agha fought valiantly. He played some attacking shots, keeping the scoreboard ticking. Agha smashed a couple of boundaries and looked set for a big score.
Salman Agha’s Gritty Knock Ends
Just when Pakistan seemed to be regaining momentum, Agha’s resistance came to an end. On 46 off 26 balls, he attempted a pull shot off Ben Sears but was deceived by a slower delivery. Mark Chapman took a brilliant catch at the boundary, leaving Pakistan at 76/5.
New Zealand’s Dominance Continues
The Kiwis’ disciplined bowling and sharp fielding kept Pakistan in check throughout the innings. With their top and middle order collapsing, Pakistan struggled to post a competitive total.
Key Highlights of the Match:
- Best Knock: Salman Agha's 46 off 26 balls
- Top Bowler: Ish Sodhi, with two key wickets in a single over
- Turning Point: The quick dismissals of Irfan Khan and Khushdil Shah, which derailed Pakistan's innings
Conclusion
Pakistan’s experiment with a high-risk approach once again backfired, leaving them with a mountain to climb. With New Zealand's bowlers in top form, Pakistan will need to rethink their strategy in the remaining matches. Skipper Salman Agha's fighting knock was the only positive takeaway in an otherwise disappointing performance.
Reference from:-https://www.hindustantimes.com/cricket/new-zealand-vs-pakistan-live-score-2nd-t20i-nz-vs-pak-latest-scorecard-updates-today-18-march-2025-dunedin-101742225450408.html