Xtra Time Web Desk: New Zealand on Wednesday registered a thrilling 101 runs victory over Pakistan in the first test in Mount Maunganui. Pakistan needed to survive 4.3 overs to save the test match. The win keeps the BlackCaps in the race for the World Test Championship final.
Tail-enders Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah blocked for seven overs in fading light before Naseem was caught and bowled by spinner Mitchell Santner for one, ending Pakistan’s resistance.
The victory was crucial for New Zealand, who needs to sweep the two-Test series to have a chance of making the World Test Championship final at Lord’s in June.
Once Jamieson claimed the crucial wicket of Rizwan, lbw for 60, Neil Wagner — bowling despite breaking two toes while batting — removed Fawad Alam for 102 runs and New Zealand were into the tail as Pakistan folded from 240 for four to be all out for 271.
Alam, who had occupied the crease with Rizwan for more than 63 overs, lasted three more overs until he gloved a Wagner short ball to wicketkeeper BJ Watling down the leg side.
New Zealand’s frontline pace bowlers Tim Southee, Trent Boult, Wagner, Jamieson and Santner each took two wickets.