Saim Ayub’s Record-Breaking Blitz Powers Pakistan to Consolation Win
Pakistan finally found their spark in the dead rubber, thanks to a sensational innings from Saim Ayub, who smashed an unbeaten 82 off just 34 balls at a strike rate of 241.18. His record-breaking half-century came in just 17 deliveries, the fastest ever by a Pakistani batter.
Batting first, Pakistan lost Sarfaraz Ahmed early to a run out and Saud Shakeel for a quickfire 28, but Ayub’s fireworks alongside Fakhar Zaman (22* off 10) powered the hosts to a formidable 138/2 in 10 overs.
New Zealand’s chase began poorly, with Hasan Ali and Mohammad Wasim striking early to remove Seifert and Conway. Glenn Phillips counterattacked with a brutal 37 off 16, but Pakistan’s bowlers kept picking wickets at crucial moments. Salman Ali Agha, Shadab Khan, and Hasan Ali all chipped in, while Wasim bowled a superb spell (2-20).
Despite late hitting from Rachin Ravindra (29* off 17) and Michael Bracewell (14* off 3), New Zealand fell short, finishing at 122/5, handing Pakistan a 16-run victory.
Ayub was named Player of the Match for his breathtaking knock, as Pakistan avoided a whitewash in the series finale.