Pakistan’s Costly Errors Hand New Zealand Tri-Series Title

 

Pakistan’s unpredictable nature was on full display in the tri-nation series final against New Zealand, just ahead of the Champions Trophy 2025. Despite a stunning 353-run chase against South Africa to reach the final, Pakistan faltered when it mattered most, suffering a five-wicket defeat to an unbeaten New Zealand side.

 

Missed Opportunities Prove Costly

 

Defending a modest 242, Pakistan had two golden chances to dismiss Tom Latham early, but errors proved costly:

•DRS Blunder: On 13 runs, Latham was trapped LBW by Abrar Ahmed, but Pakistan chose not to review. Replays later confirmed three reds, showing the ball would have hit the stumps.

•Dropped Catch: Just two overs later, Latham mistimed a drive straight to Shaheen Afridi, who failed to hold on to a simple catch when Latham was on 15.

 

Latham went on to score a crucial 56, steering New Zealand close to victory before finally falling to Afridi. Daryl Mitchell (57), Devon Conway (48), and Kane Williamson (34) also made key contributions as New Zealand chased down the target with ease.

 

Pakistan’s Batting Struggles

 

Earlier, Pakistan’s innings was rescued by Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha, with late cameos from Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, and Naseem Shah pushing the total to 242. But it wasn’t enough against a dominant New Zealand side.

 

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