New Zealand completes series sweep with 43-run victory over Pakistan in 3rd ODI

In the third and final ODI at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui, New Zealand delivered a commanding performance to defeat Pakistan by 43 runs, completing a clean sweep of the three-match series.

Chasing a target of 265 runs, Pakistan once again struggled with the bat and were bowled out for 221 in the 40th over. Despite a promising start with a 73-run stand between Abdullah Shafique and Babar Azam, the middle order failed to build momentum.

Babar Azam top-scored with a steady knock of 57, while Mohammad Rizwan chipped in with 37.

Abdullah and Tayyab Tahir each contributed 33 runs, but the rest of the lineup faltered under pressure.

Read: Imam-ul-Haq injured after fielder’s throw strikes his face during third ODI against New Zealand 

New Zealand’s Ben Sears was the star with the ball, claiming a five-wicket haul, while Jacob Duffy picked up two scalps. Michael Bracewell, Mohammad Abbas, and Daryl Mitchell each took a wicket to keep Pakistan in check.

Earlier, the hosts posted 264 for 8 in a rain-affected match shortened to 42 overs. Skipper Michael Bracewell led the charge with a vital 59-run innings. For Pakistan, Akif Javed impressed with four wickets, while Naseem Shah bagged two.

Pakistan’s innings had a shaky moment early on when opener Imam-ul-Haq had to retire hurt after being struck on the face by a throw from the field while attempting a run.

At one stage, Pakistan stood at 59 without loss in 13 overs, with Abdullah on 26 and Babar on 25. But their resistance crumbled shortly after, marking yet another underwhelming chase.

New Zealand had already secured the series with a 2-0 lead going into the final match, and this win sealed their dominance in the ODI leg of the tour.