Pakistan is set to face New Zealand in the fourth T20I of their five-match series at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui on Sunday at 5:15 PM local time (06:15 GMT). This match is crucial for Pakistan, who managed to keep their series hopes alive with a stunning victory in the third match.
After losing the first two games, Pakistan bounced back dramatically in the third T20I, thanks in large part to Hasan Nawaz. The 23-year-old opener, who had struggled in the first two matches, scored an impressive unbeaten 105 runs off just 44 balls. This remarkable performance led Pakistan to chase down New Zealand’s score of 204, marking the fastest century by any Pakistani player in T20 internationals.
New Zealand started the series strong, winning the first match by nine wickets after bowling Pakistan out for just 91 runs. In the second match, they secured another win, this time by five wickets, showcasing their batting prowess with a flurry of sixes.
Looking ahead, New Zealand will have to cope without seamer Matt Henry, who has been ruled out of the remainder of the series due to a shoulder injury. In his absence, Zak Foulkes and Will O’Rourke will continue to represent the team.
On the other hand, Pakistan is expected to field the same winning team from the last match, as they have no new injury concerns. The team will aim to build on their momentum and level the series at 2-2 before heading into the final match.
Historically, this will be the 48th T20 meeting between the two sides, with Pakistan having won 24 times and New Zealand 21. The series continues to be competitive, and the upcoming match promises to be an exciting encounter for fans.
For those wanting to catch the action, the game will be broadcast live on TVNZ 1, TVNZ+, and Sport Nation NZ in New Zealand, while viewers in Pakistan can watch it on Ten Sports or stream it on Tapmad.
As the series unfolds, both teams are looking to make their mark, with Pakistan eager to equalize and New Zealand hoping to secure the series victory. The stage is set for an exciting showdown at Bay Oval.