Pakistan proved far too good for an under-strength New Zealand side in the first of two back to back Twenty20 International Cricket matches. New Zealand’s decision to rest captain Brendon McCullum; and seamers Trent Boult and Tim Southee backfired as Pakistan easily chased down a mediocre target of 136.
New Zealand’s effort to set an imposing total was under immediate threat as they fell to 15-3 when Ross Taylor, Kane Williamson, and Anton Devcich were all dismissed inside three overs. Repair work was performed by Corey Anderson and Luke Ronchi. Anderson in particular looked to have NZ back on track for a respectable target after making his way to 48 with four 6s. Unfortunately, his and New Zealand’s momentum was cut short when he fell looking for a fifth maximum and the Black Caps managed just 135 from their 20 overs.
Sarfraz Ahmed expertly guided Pakistans response. The wicketkeeper made 76 not out from just 64 balls and was involved in the crucial 43 run partnership with Umar Akmal that saw them home. Of the New Zealand attack only seamers Mitchell McClenaghan (4-21-1) and Adam Milne (4-18-0) displayed any semblance of a threat in what was otherwise a sensible and measured cricket innings.
We thought the positivity of the test series might flow through NZ’s cricket into this match so we gave them a chance to upset Pakistan here, but it will be hard to back them for game two which is played tomorrow. As always after suffering a defeat, NZ will look to bounce back while Pakistan will be seeking to further destroy NZ’s confidence before the one day cricket series begins. NZ need runs from Taylor and Guptill, and wickets rather than cheap overs from their spinners Nathan McCullum and Devcich to support the fine work of their pace attack.
Pakistan simply need more of the same. They’ll be hoping for more crease time for Sarfraz, Awais Zia and Haris Sohail, but a 2-0 win will be consolation if not.
Game Two Odds
New Zealand $2.3
Pakistan $1.62
Cricket odds courtesy of Sportingbet Australia
Game Two Predictions
Flipping a coin will be about as successful as following our predictions. This could go either way. But once again go with New Zealand to hit the most sixes. Those leg side slogging Kiwis…
