Cricket again moves to Dubai for the third One Day International (ODI) between Pakistan and New Zealand, out of whom will seal the series title if wins the last ODI-turned final on Sunday (PTV Sports).
Both the teams have won one match each in the three-match ODI series.
Third ODI will be talecast on PTV Sports at 04:00 pm PST
Pakistan vs New Zealand series 2018 , live on PTV-Sports #GameOnHai#PAKvNZ pic.twitter.com/KP2XYSmtyd
— PTV Sports (@PTVSp0rts) October 31, 2018
New Zealand won the first ODI at Abu Dhabi by 47 runs. However, much-improved Pakistan bounced back and leveled the series by winning the second ODI by six wickets.
Prior to the second match, New Zealand had won 12 ODIs against Pakistan in a row but the six-wicket victory by green shirts halted New Zealand’s consecutive onslaught.
In the second ODI, Pakistani bowlers didn’t allow New Zealand’s batsmen to accelerate the innings at any stage and restricted them to 209 for nine only in 50 overs.
The batsmen also didn’t let the team down this time and cruised to a comprehensive victory. Pakistan reached the target in 40.3 overs with six wickets till in hand.
Fakhar Zaman scored his maiden fifty in Asia and got out on 88. Babar Azam also again demonstrated his class and scored 46 runs.
Imam Ul Haq remained unfortunate as he had to retire hurt after a quick bouncer by Lockie Ferguson struck his helmet. His inclusion in the third ODI is in doubt.
Imam ul Haq injury update.
Imam ul Haq all scans clear. He joined the team and will remain under observation of Team Physio. pic.twitter.com/wrYn9FUfWG
— PCB Official (@TheRealPCB) November 9, 2018
It is worth reminding that since 2003, Pakistan hasn’t been good when it comes to bilateral ODI series deciders. From that period till now, Pakistan has been involved in 15 such deciders; however, it managed to secure victories in only three matches.
In addition, in last four bilateral ODI series between Pakistan and New Zealand, the latter won all of them. One of them was also in UAE in 2014-15.
