The third T20 International match between New Zealand and Pakistan at Eden Park, Auckland on March 21, 2025, was nothing short of a thrilling encounter. Pakistan’s cricket team showcased remarkable performance, pulling off a historic chase and securing a series lead. In this article, we’ll know about intriguing statistics and records from this memorable clash.
Babar Azam’s Phenomenal Batting Performance
Captain’s Knock Steals the Show
Babar Azam, the backbone of Pakistan’s cricket team, delivered a sensational performance that left cricket fans around the globe in awe. Chasing a daunting target, Babar played a captain’s innings, scoring a majestic 89 off 52 balls. His innings featured classy drives and powerful strokes, reflecting his top-notch form.
Setting New Records in T20 Internationals
With this innings, Babar Azam set a new record as the first Pakistani captain to chase down a target of 190+ in T20Is. His consistent ability to anchor the innings while scoring at a brisk pace makes him one of the greatest T20 batsmen in modern cricket.
Shaheen Afridi’s Impactful Bowling Performance
Brilliant New Ball Spell
Shaheen Afridi, known for his lethal bowling, once again proved his mettle. Opening the bowling for Pakistan, he picked up crucial wickets during the powerplay, including that of Devon Conway and Glenn Phillips, who looked set to post a big score.
Shaheen’s Impressive Bowling Figures
Shaheen ended with figures of 3 for 28 in 4 overs, maintaining an economy rate that restricted New Zealand’s batting charge. His early breakthroughs were crucial in keeping the opposition’s total within a chaseable range.
New Zealand’s Batting Highlights
Glenn Phillips’ Power-Packed Knock
Glenn Phillips, one of New Zealand’s top-order power hitters, smashed his way to a rapid 75 off 39 balls. His innings included six towering sixes and four boundaries, sending the crowd into a frenzy. Despite his remarkable effort, it wasn’t enough to secure a win for the Kiwis.
Devon Conway’s Steady Contribution
Conway, as reliable as ever, anchored the innings with a well-paced 47 off 31 balls. His partnership with Phillips laid a solid foundation for New Zealand, but the middle-order collapse prevented them from capitalizing.
Asif Ali’s Game-Changing Finish
Power Hitting at Its Best
In the death overs, Asif Ali showcased his unmatched finishing ability by smashing 26 off 12 balls, including three consecutive sixes that sealed the victory for Pakistan. Asif’s fearless approach has solidified his reputation as Pakistan’s go-to finisher in T20 cricket.
Turning Points of the Match
Match-Winning Partnership: Babar and Rizwan
The partnership between Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan once again proved vital for Pakistan. They put together a crucial 104-run stand that steadied the chase after an early setback. Rizwan’s controlled aggression complemented Babar’s elegant stroke play.
Crucial Wickets by Shaheen Afridi
The key moments undoubtedly included Shaheen’s early breakthroughs that rattled the Kiwi top order. These wickets ensured that New Zealand didn’t get off to an explosive start, giving Pakistan a significant edge.
Fielding Excellence from Pakistan
Smart Fielding Efforts
Pakistan’s fielders showcased their commitment by saving crucial runs and taking important catches. Notably, Shadab Khan’s diving catch to dismiss Phillips was a game-changer.
Eden Park’s Cricketing History
Notable T20 Records at Eden Park
Eden Park has witnessed several thrilling encounters, but Pakistan’s highest T20 chase on this ground has undoubtedly left a lasting mark. With Babar Azam at the helm, Pakistan has now etched its name into the Auckland cricket record books.
Post-Match Reactions and Analysis
Babar Azam’s Thoughts on the Victory
Speaking at the post-match presentation, Babar Azam praised his team’s fighting spirit and emphasized the importance of partnerships. He also lauded Shaheen Afridi’s bowling and Asif Ali’s finishing for their crucial roles in securing the win.
New Zealand Captain’s Perspective
Kane Williamson, despite the loss, commended his team for putting up a challenging total. He acknowledged Pakistan’s superior chase and highlighted areas for improvement, especially in the bowling department.
Statistical Highlights of the Match
- Highest Partnership: Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan – 104 runs
- Top Scorer: Babar Azam – 89 (52)
- Best Bowling Figures: Shaheen Afridi – 3/28
- Most Sixes: Glenn Phillips – 6
- Winning Margin: Pakistan won by 5 wickets
Conclusion
The third T20 International between New Zealand and Pakistan was a thrilling contest, marked by exceptional batting and quality bowling. Babar Azam’s captaincy, Shaheen Afridi’s new ball spell, and Asif Ali’s explosive finishing made it a night to remember for cricket fans. As Pakistan takes a series lead, the focus now shifts to maintaining consistency in the upcoming matches.
FAQs
Q1. What was the final score of the third T20 between New Zealand and Pakistan?
Pakistan chased down the target of 190, winning by 5 wickets.
Q2. Who was the Man of the Match?
Babar Azam was named Man of the Match for his outstanding knock of 89 off 52 balls.
Q3. How many wickets did Shaheen Afridi take?
Shaheen Afridi took 3 wickets, conceding just 28 runs in his 4-over spell.
Q4. Who hit the most sixes in the match?
Glenn Phillips hit the most sixes, smashing 6 during his explosive innings.
Q5. What is Pakistan’s highest T20 chase record at Eden Park?
Pakistan set a new record by chasing down 190, marking their highest T20 chase at Eden Park.