New Zealand vs Pakistan 4th T20I 2025 Finn Allens Blitz and Record Defeat

​In a commanding display at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui, on March 23, 2025, New Zealand secured a series-clinching victory over Pakistan in the fourth T20I, winning by a staggering 115 runs. This triumph not only handed Pakistan their heaviest defeat in T20I history but also underscored New Zealand's dominance in the series, giving them an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match series.​

New Zealand's Explosive Batting Performance

Opting to bat first, New Zealand's innings was characterized by aggressive batting and strategic partnerships. The opening duo set the tone with a rapid 59-run stand. Tim Seifert was particularly aggressive, scoring 44 runs off just 22 balls, including three fours and four sixes, before being dismissed by Haris Rauf. His partner, Finn Allen, continued the onslaught, reaching his half-century in a mere 20 balls. Allen's innings of 50 runs featured six boundaries and three maximums, showcasing his ability to dominate the bowling attack.

Following the departure of the openers, Mark Chapman contributed a quick 24 off 16 balls, while Daryl Mitchell added 29 runs from 23 deliveries. The middle-order momentum was maintained by captain Michael Bracewell, who remained unbeaten on 46 off 26 balls, striking five fours and two sixes. His leadership and aggressive batting ensured that New Zealand posted a formidable total of 220 for 6 in their allotted 20 overs.

Pakistan's Struggles with the Ball

Pakistan's bowlers faced a challenging day, struggling to contain the Kiwi batsmen. Haris Rauf emerged as the most successful bowler for Pakistan, claiming three wickets for 27 runs in his four-over spell. His dismissals included key wickets of Seifert, Chapman, and Mitchell. However, other bowlers found it difficult to make inroads. Shaheen Afridi, typically a spearhead for Pakistan, conceded 49 runs without taking a wicket. Similarly, Khushdil Shah and Abrar Ahmed were expensive, leaking runs at over 10 runs per over. ​

Pakistan's Disastrous Chase

Chasing a daunting target of 221, Pakistan's innings faltered from the outset. The top order collapsed under the pressure of a disciplined New Zealand bowling attack. Jacob Duffy led the charge, delivering a remarkable performance with figures of 4 wickets for 20 runs. His early breakthroughs dismantled Pakistan's batting lineup, reducing them to 9 for 3 within the first two overs.

Zakary Foulkes complemented Duffy's efforts by taking three wickets for 25 runs. His dismissals included crucial middle-order batsmen, further derailing Pakistan's chase. At one stage, Pakistan was reeling at 56 for 8, facing the ignominy of recording their lowest T20I total. However, a resilient knock from Abdul Samad, who scored an unbeaten 44 off 30 balls, provided some respectability to the total. Despite his efforts, Pakistan was bowled out for 105 in 16.2 overs, handing New Zealand a comprehensive victory.

Records and Milestones

This match marked Pakistan's largest defeat in T20I cricket by runs, surpassing their previous worst loss of 95 runs to New Zealand in Wellington nine years prior. For New Zealand, this victory stands as their second-largest win in T20Is by runs, closely following their 119-run triumph against the West Indies in 2018 at the same venue.

Player of the Match: Finn Allen

Finn Allen's explosive batting earned him the Player of the Match award. His 50 runs off 20 balls laid a solid foundation for New Zealand's imposing total. Allen's aggressive approach put Pakistan's bowlers on the back foot early in the innings, setting the tone for the rest of the match.

Series Outcome and Looking Ahead

With this victory, New Zealand secured an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match T20I series against Pakistan. The final match presents an opportunity for New Zealand to further assert their dominance and for Pakistan to salvage some pride. The series has highlighted New Zealand's depth in both batting and bowling, while Pakistan will need to reassess and strategize to overcome their shortcomings in the shortest format of the game.

In conclusion, the fourth T20I between New Zealand and Pakistan was a testament to the hosts' superiority in all facets of the game. From explosive batting displays to clinical bowling performances, New Zealand showcased a brand of cricket that was both entertaining and effective, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the final match of the series.