In a match that perfectly mirrored the tone of the series, New Zealand capped off a dominant ODI campaign with a 43-run win over Pakistan, securing a comprehensive 3-0 whitewash. Despite missing several key players, the Kiwis showcased their depth, discipline, and determination, outplaying Pakistan in all three facets of the game — yet again.
Rain-Shortened Match, Same Intensity
The final ODI in this short series was reduced to 42 overs per side due to rain, but the intensity remained sky-high. New Zealand batted first and posted a solid total of 264 for 8, thanks largely to an inspiring 50 from stand-in skipper Michael Bracewell and a maiden ODI half-century by young Rhys Mariu.
Bracewell’s experience and calm under pressure stood out. Despite tough batting conditions following days of rain, he anchored the innings while keeping the scoreboard ticking. Mariu, playing only his second ODI, looked composed beyond his years and set the platform early in the innings.
The middle-order batters — including Dean Foxcroft and Tom Bruce — contributed handy runs. However, the Pakistani bowlers did manage to show improvement from their past outings. Akif Javed stood out with four wickets, while Naseem Shah and Sufiyan Muqeem chipped in with key breakthroughs. Despite their efforts, the bowlers failed to contain New Zealand in the final few overs, leaking crucial runs at the death.
Pakistan Falter Despite Bright Moments
Chasing 265, Pakistan got off to a decent start despite losing opener Imam-ul-Haq to injury. Abdullah Shafique and Babar Azam built a steady partnership, with Babar in particular looking like he was in for a big one. His well-crafted half-century offered a glimmer of hope for Pakistan.
But that hope quickly faded once Babar was dismissed by Daryl Mitchell — a crucial turning point in the match. From that moment, Pakistan’s chase unraveled. Wickets started falling regularly, the runs dried up, and New Zealand’s bowlers turned the screws.
While Mohammad Rizwan and Tayyab Tahir showed resistance in the middle order with brief, fighting cameos, they didn’t get the support needed from the lower order. Tayyab, in particular, fought valiantly, scoring 33 off 31 balls, but it was all in vain as the tail crumbled.
Sears Steals the Show
If there was a single player who epitomized New Zealand’s dominance, it was Ben Sears. The young pacer was on fire yet again, finishing the match with stunning figures of 5 for 34 — his second consecutive five-wicket haul in the series. With his fiery pace, smart variations, and relentless line, Sears became a nightmare for the Pakistani batters.
His spell was full of game-defining moments. From removing Naseem Shah with a smartly reviewed caught behind to wrapping up the game by dismissing Sufiyan Muqeem, Sears always had the final say. His efforts earned him the well-deserved Player of the Series award for taking 10 wickets in just two games.
Jacob Duffy also made key contributions, bagging two wickets, including the important scalp of Tayyab Tahir late in the innings, while Bracewell and Muhammad Abbas picked up one apiece.
Leadership That Delivered
At the post-match presentation, New Zealand captain Michael Bracewell was all smiles. He credited the team’s style of play and the emergence of new faces. “We’ve had a few fresh faces join the squad, and it’s been exciting to see them step up,” he said.I am so much happy to see how we played because that really reflects us.
Bracewell also highlighted the bowling group, saying they’ve consistently found ways to break partnerships and apply pressure. “Sears and the rest of the attack have been outstanding. We’ve seen our bowlers be fast and aggressive — it’s been heart-warming.”
On the other side, Pakistan skipper Mohammad Rizwan acknowledged his team’s struggles, though he believed they showed some fight in the final match. “We were better today compared to the first two games, but there’s still a lot to improve — especially in our batting,” he admitted. “New Zealand have been superb both here and when they visited Pakistan. Their professionalism is commendable.”
He pointed to positives like Babar’s fifty and Sufiyan Muqeem’s promising spell but admitted that the team lacked consistency and cohesion.
A Series to Forget for Pakistan
This ODI loss marks the end of a disappointing tour for Pakistan. After losing the T20I series 4-1 and now being swept 3-0 in the ODIs, it’s clear there are issues to address. Missed opportunities, inconsistent batting, and a lack of cutting-edge with the ball plagued them throughout.
Despite flashes of brilliance from individual players, they couldn’t string together a complete performance when it mattered. Now, with the PSL on the horizon, players will shift their focus to franchise cricket. Rizwan hoped the excitement of the PSL — “a festival for our fans” — would help players reset and regain confidence.
New Zealand’s Statement of Strength
For New Zealand, this was more than just a clean sweep — it was a statement of strength and depth. They managed to dominate without several of their usual stars, and the younger crop didn’t just step in; they shone.
Players like Sears, Mariu, and Hay have made names for themselves, and the team’s style of play — aggressive, fearless, and methodical — is clearly working. With a few months off before their next international assignments, this series win is the perfect send-off for the Kiwis.
Looking Ahead
The teams will now enjoy a brief break from international cricket. While the players regroup and prepare for the PSL starting April 11, fans will look back at this series as a turning point — especially for New Zealand, who showed what it means to adapt, innovate, and dominate, even in transition.
Pakistan, meanwhile, will be reflecting deeply. There’s talent in abundance, but turning that into wins consistently remains the big challenge. Whether they can bounce back in the PSL and rebuild from here will be worth watching.
But for now, the series belongs to New Zealand — and deservedly so.