New Zealand won the second T20I of the five-match series against Pakistan on Tuesday by a convincing 6-wicket margin. Even after rain had shortened the game to 15 overs per team, the hosts chased down Pakistan’s 135/9 with ease at the University Oval ground in Dunedin.

Shaheen Afridi Struggles as Tim Seifert Goes on the Attack

Pakistan’s bowling department again found it difficult to hold back the New Zealand batsmen, as in the first T20I. Star pacer Shaheen Afridi in particular had a difficult day out, giving away 31 runs in three overs, including 24 runs off one over. New Zealand’s wicketkeeper-batter Tim Seifert dominated, smashing Afridi for four sixes, one of which was an enormous 119-meter hit, sending shockwaves in the Pakistani camp.

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Pakistan Improves but Fail Again

Pakistan did a better job in their second match compared to the way they played in the opening game, but they still fell short. There was resistance during their innings, but New Zealand’s bowlers kept the pressure applied so that the tourists could not achieve a scary total.

Pakistan captain Salman Agha admitted the team’s improvement but highlighted the requirement for better performances in the powerplay.

It was cold. It was a good game in comparison to the previous game. We played better with the bat. The fielding was superb. Bowling in patches was decent. The bounce we have to get used to is different. After the powerplay, we bowled well. Haris bowled well. We have to improve in the powerplay. As a batting unit, we have to play better powerplay. And the same as a bowling unit too,” he added.

Pakistan on the Verge of Series Loss

New Zealand is 2-0 up, and Pakistan is in a must-win situation in the third T20I. A defeat would give the series to the Kiwis, putting more pressure on the struggling visitors to mount a comeback.

Will Pakistan be able to turn the tables in the next match, or will New Zealand wrap up the series early? Cricket fans wait with bated breath for the answer.