New Zealand clinched a five-wicket victory in the second T20I match against Pakistan on Tuesday in Dunedin to take a 2-0 lead in the five-match series. Following an hour delay due to rain, the match had been reduced to 15 overs and Pakistan, who were asked to bat, posted a good total of 135 for the loss of nine wickets.
They were bolstered by an impressive innings from skipper Salman Agha, who clouted 28-ball 46. Defending the total, Pakistan bowlers remained unsuccessful in controlling the batting fireworks from New Zealand openers Tim Seifert (45) and Finn Allen (38), who gave the side a cracking start. New Zealand achieved victory in 13.1 overs, scoring 137/5. Meanwhile, Pakistan skipper Salman Agha has called for consistency.
“I think we've batted a bit better in this game. But it would still need to be a better finish as well, fielding was outstanding, and bowling in patches was good, but we need to be a bit more consistent," Agha said after the match.
Agha felt that Pakistan’s lack of performance in the powerplay, where they leaked 66 runs from five overs, was the reason behind their defeat in the second T20I.
“After the Powerplay we bowled well. I think spinners bowled well, and then Haris came, and he bowled really well. I think we bowled well in patches, and at the same time, we didn't bowl well in the Powerplay."
"We need to be a bit better in Powerplay and we need to be a bit more consistent.”