T20 world Cup 2021, PAK VS NZ Highlights: Pakistan continued their impressive show at the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 as they beat New Zealand by 5 wickets to register 2 wins in 2 outings. The win came after the Kiwis had pulled out of a tour of Pakistan last month citing security concerns, leaving the host nation disappointed and angry.
Batting first, New Zealand was dismantled by Haris Rauf, who finished with career-best figures of 4/22 to restrict The Kiwis to 134/8. Chasing which Pakistan was reduced to 86/5 and the game could swing any way. But Shoaib Malik's 27 not out and Asif Ali's unbeaten 12-ball-27 crushed New Zealand's hopes of a late comeback and carried Pakistan to 136-5 in 18.4 overs to earn the team their second victory in 3 days.
Also read: T20 World Cup 2021: Quinton de Kock pulls out of game vs Windies, refuses to take a knee
In a way, Pakistan's win may turn out to be a blessing for Team India. A win for New Zealand would have made the situation worse for Virat Kohli's men, who have already lost a game to the arch rivals. If India manage to beat The Kiwis in their 2nd game, their chances to qualify for the semi-finals will boost big time.