RKI Network
New Zealand secured a five-wicket victory over Pakistan in the tri-nations final, thanks to Will O’Rourke’s four-wicket haul and half-centuries from Daryl Mitchell and Tom Latham.
O’Rourke’s 4-43 helped dismiss Pakistan for 242 in 49.3 overs at Karachi’s National Bank Stadium. In response, Mitchell (57) and Latham (56) guided the Black Caps to victory, reaching 243-5 in 45.2 overs.
Despite early setbacks, a crucial 87-run stand between Mitchell and Latham steadied New Zealand’s chase. Glenn Phillips’ unbeaten 20 ensured a comfortable finish. Naseem Shah (2-43) was Pakistan’s standout bowler.
Earlier, Pakistan struggled against New Zealand’s disciplined attack. Skipper Mohammad Rizwan (46) and Agha Salman (45) offered resistance, but O’Rourke, along with spinners Mitchell Santner (2-20) and Michael Bracewell (2-38), kept them in check.
Babar Azam’s 29 saw him reach 6,000 ODI runs in record time, matching Hashim Amla’s feat. Late contributions from Tayyab Tahir (38) and Faheem Ashraf (22) pushed Pakistan past 240.
The win gives New Zealand momentum ahead of their Champions Trophy opener against Pakistan at the same venue next week.
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