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In a commanding display at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui, New Zealand secured a 43-run victory over Pakistan in the 3rd One Day International (ODI) on April 5, 2025, completing a 3-0 series sweep. This win underscores the Black Caps' dominance in the series, with standout performances from Ben Sears, Rhys Mariu, and Michael Bracewell.
Date: April 5, 2025
Venue: Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui
Result: New Zealand won by 43 runs
Series Outcome: New Zealand swept the series 3-0
After winning the toss, New Zealand opted to bat first in a match reduced to 42 overs per side due to a rain delay. The opening pair provided a steady start, with Rhys Mariu, playing in only his second ODI, impressing with a composed 58 off 61 balls, including six boundaries and two sixes.
The middle order saw contributions from Will Young (42 off 55) and Mark Chapman (25 off 29), setting the stage for a late-innings surge. Michael Bracewell, the stand-in captain, delivered a blistering 59 off 40 balls, peppered with six towering sixes, propelling New Zealand to a total of 264/8 in their allotted 42 overs.
Michael Bracewell: 59 (40 balls), 6x6
Rhys Mariu: 58 (61 balls), 6x4, 2x6
Will Young: 42 (55 balls)
Pakistan's bowlers had moments of brilliance but struggled to contain New Zealand's aggressive batting. Akif Javed emerged as the standout bowler, claiming 4 wickets for 62 runs. Naseem Shah also showcased his potential, finishing with figures of 2 for 54 in his 9 overs.
Akif Javed: 4/62 (9 overs)
Naseem Shah: 2/54 (9 overs)
Usama Mir: 1/38 (6 overs)
Chasing a target of 265, Pakistan's innings was fraught with challenges. An early setback occurred when Imam-ul-Haq had to retire hurt after being struck by a throw, disrupting the team's momentum.
Babar Azam anchored the innings with a well-crafted 50 off 58 balls, while Abdullah Shafique contributed 33 off 56 balls. Mohammad Rizwan added 37 off 46 balls, but the lack of substantial partnerships and the mounting required run rate put Pakistan on the back foot.
New Zealand's bowlers, led by the exceptional Ben Sears, dismantled Pakistan's batting lineup. Sears delivered a career-best performance, securing 5 wickets for 34 runs, exploiting the pitch conditions with his pace and bounce. His efforts were complemented by Jacob Duffy, who took 2 wickets for 40 runs, including the crucial dismissal of Mohammad Rizwan.
Babar Azam: 50 (58 balls)
Mohammad Rizwan: 37 (46 balls)
Abdullah Shafique: 33 (56 balls)
Ben Sears emerged as the game-changer for New Zealand, delivering back-to-back five-wicket hauls in the series. His figures of 5/34 in this match underscored his ability to leverage pitch conditions effectively, particularly utilizing short-pitched deliveries to unsettle the Pakistani batsmen.
"It's been an amazing series for me personally. I've worked hard on my short-ball bowling, and it paid off," Sears remarked post-match.
Stepping in as captain, Michael Bracewell showcased leadership both with the bat and in the field. His aggressive 59 off 40 balls provided the late-innings impetus New Zealand needed, and his tactical acumen on the field contributed significantly to the team's defensive strategy.
Youngster Rhys Mariu displayed maturity beyond his years, anchoring the top order with a composed 58. His ability to handle pressure and play shots all around the wicket bodes well for New Zealand's batting depth in the future.
New Zealand's dominance was evident throughout the series, securing victories by 73 runs in Napier, 84 runs in Hamilton, and 43 runs in Mount Maunganui. The team's consistent performances across all departments highlight their preparedness and adaptability.
2nd ODI in Hamilton: New Zealand won by 84 runs
3rd ODI in Mount Maunganui: New Zealand won by 43 runs
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