After winning the first three T20s, New Zealand faced a challenging situation in this game, but Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips led them to a fourth consecutive win.
The Black Caps chased down a target of 159 runs on a pitch that was more favourable to bowlers compared to previous matches in the series. They had a poor start, being reduced to 20-3 in the third over. However, Mitchell (72 not out off 44 balls) and Phillips (70 not out off 52 balls) formed an unbeaten partnership of 139 runs for the fourth wicket. This partnership, the highest fourth-wicket stand for New Zealand in T20s, helped them to recover and ultimately achieve a seven-wicket win with 11 balls remaining.
Pakistan’s batting performance was largely driven by Mohammad Rizwan, who scored 90 not out off 63 balls. They reached 158-5, a competitive score considering the average score for teams batting first in T20Is at Hagley Oval is 162. New Zealand’s bowlers, especially Matt Henry and Lockie Ferguson, performed well, creating difficulties for Pakistan’s batsmen.
Pakistan captain Shaheen Shah Afridi made a strong start in defending their score, causing early troubles for New Zealand. However, a dropped catch and some lackluster fielding from Pakistan aided the Black Cap’s recovery. Mitchell and Phillips took control of the game, leading their team to the win.
