Rizwan reflects on Pakistan’s defeat in second ODI against New Zealand

Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan acknowledged his team's struggles following an 84-run defeat to New Zealand in the second ODI of the three-match series at Seddon Park on Wednesday.

Speaking at the post-match presentation, Rizwan admitted that Pakistan failed to utilise the conditions effectively.

“We didn’t do well today. We didn’t utilize the swing effectively, and New Zealand bowled very well,” he said. He also praised the hosts for their disciplined bowling and credited Mitchell Hay’s batting performance.

Chasing 293, Pakistan suffered an early collapse, losing Abdullah Shafique (1), Imam-ul-Haq (3), and Babar Azam (1) cheaply. Mohammad Rizwan (5), Salman Agha (9), and Tayyab Tahir (13) also failed to make significant contributions, leaving the team struggling at 114-8 in 28.2 overs.

Faheem Ashraf fought back with a 73-run knock, while Naseem Shah, coming in as a concussion substitute for Haris Rauf, put up a crucial 51-run innings.

Despite their efforts, Pakistan was bowled out for 208 in 41.2 overs, handing New Zealand a series-clinching victory.