Pakistan crashed to a crushing 84-run defeat in the second ODI match against New Zealand at Seddon Park in Hamilton on Wednesday, allowing New Zealand to claim a series-clinching 2-0 lead in the three-match series.
Despite late fightback from Faheem Ashraf and Naseem Shah, flogging 73 and 51 respectively, Pakistan were bowled out for 208 in 41.2 overs in their pursuit of 292. The dominant victory by New Zealand has put them 2-0 up in the three-match series, a heavy blow for Pakistan, who were hoping to bounce back after a defeat in the first ODI as well.
Defending a total of 292, New Zealand bowlers produced one of the greatest spells to bowl Pakistan all out for 208 and help the hosts to an unassailable 2-0 series lead. Jacob Duffy and Ben Sears bagged three and five wickets respectively to lead the demolition of Pakistan's star-studded batting attack. Earlier, after being asked to bat, New Zealand posted a formidable total of 292/8 in their 50 overs.
The innings was largely led by Mitchell Hay, who blasted an unbeaten 99-run knock off 78 balls to set the best international score. He was instrumental in anchoring the innings and providing the stability that allowed New Zealand to reach a competitive total. Mitchell Hay led Black Caps' recovery after they were reduced to 132-5, with Henry Nicholls, Daryl Mitchell and Michael Bracewell getting out cheaply. Ben Sears, on the other hand, claimed his first five-wicket haul in ODIs.