In the third T20 International between Pakistan and New Zealand at Eden Park, Auckland, Pakistan won the toss and elected to bowl first. New Zealand posted a total of 179 for 3 in 18.2 overs, with Mark Chapman playing a pivotal role by scoring an unbeaten 87 runs off 42 balls. His innings included nine fours and four sixes, anchoring New Zealand’s innings effectively.
Pakistan’s bowlers had early successes, with Shaheen Shah Afridi dismissing Finn Allen for 3 runs in the opening over, and Shadab Khan taking the wicket of Daryl Mitchell. Despite these breakthroughs, New Zealand’s middle-order partnerships, particularly between Chapman and Dean Foxcroft, who contributed 31 runs, stabilized their innings and set a competitive target.
In response, Pakistan’s batting lineup faced challenges in maintaining momentum. Saim Ayub scored 32 runs off 22 balls, while Babar Azam added 37 runs. Shadab Khan’s quick 41 off 20 balls provided a late surge, but it wasn’t sufficient to chase down the target. Pakistan concluded their innings at 178 for 4 in 20 overs, falling short by 7 runs.
