New Zealand Clinch Thrilling Victory Over Pakistan in Fourth T20I

New Zealand 178 for 7 beat Pakistan 174 for 8 by 4 runs.

Tim Robinson's stellar half-century combined with William O'Rourke's exceptional bowling propelled New Zealand to a narrow four-run victory over Pakistan in the fourth T20I clash at Gaddafi Stadium on Sunday. With this win, the visitors have secured an unassailable 2-1 lead in the five-match series.

Opting to bat first, New Zealand got off to a flying start, amassing 56 runs in the initial five overs. However, Pakistan's Zaman Khan provided a breakthrough by dismissing the dangerous Tom Blundell for 28 runs off 15 balls. Despite the setback, Robinson continued to attack, notching up his maiden half-century, and bolstering New Zealand's innings.

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Robinson's aggressive knock of 51 runs from 36 deliveries, supported by Dean Foxcroft's 34 off 26 balls and a quickfire cameo from skipper Michael Bracewell (27 runs), guided New Zealand to a competitive total of 178/7 in their allotted 20 overs.

Tim Robinson played an important knock at the top.

Pakistan's bowlers, led by Shaheen Afridi's impressive spell of 3-20, while Abbas Afridi picked up two wickets in two balls, preventing the Kiwi batsmen from settling down.

In response, Pakistan faced early setbacks, losing three wickets within the powerplay overs. However, Fakhar Zaman's resilient innings of 61 runs from 45 balls, complemented by valuable partnerships with Shadab Khan (7) and Iftikhar Ahmed (23), provided hope for the hosts. Despite Imad Wasim's late charge, remaining unbeaten on 22 off 11 balls, Pakistan fell short of the target, managing only 174/8 in their 20 overs.

Fakhar Zaman played well for his 61 off 45 balls but was unable to sail through.

O'Rourke led New Zealand's bowling attack with figures of 3 wickets, while Ben Sears contributed with 2 wickets for 27 runs.

With this victory, New Zealand sealed the series with one match remaining, leaving Pakistan to ponder their strategies ahead of the final encounter. The 5th and final T20I will be played Saturday.