Pakistan forgoes DRS on Tom Latham, drops catch in next over, loses final to New Zealand: 'Always provides excitement'
27 days ago | 5 Views
Following their remarkable achievement of completing the highest-ever run chase in ODI cricket against South Africa, securing victory with six balls remaining, Pakistan delivered a disappointing performance in the tri-series final against New Zealand. This match marked the Kiwis' first tournament victory in Pakistan, a scenario that is all too familiar for the Pakistani team. They often follow record-breaking feats with subpar displays, leaving both opponents and fans uncertain about what to expect next, ensuring a continuous cycle of suspense and entertainment.
The match commenced with captain Mohammad Rizwan choosing to bat first on a pitch that was anticipated to behave unpredictably under lights. "We opted to bat first because we believed the pitch would become challenging. And indeed, it was. Credit goes to their bowlers. After losing three wickets, Salman and I needed to establish a partnership. We were aiming for a total of 260. I got out at an inopportune moment," Rizwan remarked post-match.
Pakistan fell short of their target by a mere 18 runs, although it is debatable whether those runs would have significantly altered the outcome, as New Zealand successfully chased down the 243-run target in 45.2 overs. The pivotal factors contributing to Pakistan's defeat included their lackluster fielding, indiscipline in bowling, and poor decision-making.
While defending a total of 242, Pakistan conceded 16 wides, just five days prior to facing the same team in the Champions Trophy opener. In the field, they missed a catch off Tom Latham and neglected to utilize the DRS, allowing the left-handed batsman to regain his form after two consecutive ducks in the tri-series. Latham could have been dismissed at scores of 15 and 27.
However, he was dropped both times and Pakistan didn't go for an lbw video referral when replays suggested leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed could have overturned the on-field umpire's decision. Latham stretched his luck when he successfully reviewed an on-field out ruling for caught behind off Shaheen Shah Afridi. He reached his half-century off 60 balls.
The broadcasters posted the video of the two incidents with the caption: 'Pakistan never fail to entertain."
Latham and Mitchell combined to score 87 runs from 88 deliveries, effectively dominating the spinners with their sweep shots, before both were dismissed late in the run chase.
"Santner remarked on Latham's performance, stating, 'He (Latham) is quite relieved as well. We are aware of his capabilities, and it was merely a matter of time. It was encouraging to see various players contribute as well.'" Devon Conway added another significant innings with 48 runs after being promoted to the opening position, while Rachin Ravindra was rested following a head injury sustained during the first match against Pakistan.
When questioned about Pakistan's fielding, which received considerable acclaim due to Salman Agha's exceptional catch that dismissed South Africa's Matthew Breetzke in the previous game, captain Rizwan acknowledged the need for improvement in this area. "We must enhance our fielding. It is one aspect where we need to make progress. Abrar excels in the field, but the others must also elevate their performance," he stated.
Pakistan will commence their Champions Trophy campaign against the same opponents on February 19 in Karachi, before heading to Dubai to face their arch-rivals India on February 23.
"Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!"
