Mitchell Hay’s 99 & Ben Sears’ 5-Wicket Haul Star in Dominant Victory*
In a thrilling second ODI at Hamilton, New Zealand outclassed Pakistan by 84 runs to clinch the three-match series 2-0. Youngster Mitchell Hay’s explosive 99* and Ben Sears’ fiery five-wicket spell headlined the match, while Pakistan’s Faheem Ashraf fought a lone battle with a gritty 73.
New Zealand Post Competitive 292/8 Despite Early Struggles
Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan opted to bowl first under cloudy skies, but New Zealand’s openers, Nick Kelly (31) and debutant Rhys Mariu (18), attacked early. Spinner Sufiyan Muqeem (2-33) slowed the hosts, but Mitchell Hay’s unbeaten 99 off 78 balls—including 22 runs in the final over—propelled New Zealand to 292/8. Muhammad Abbas (41) provided crucial support in a 77-run partnership with Hay.
Pakistan’s Top-Order Collapse Seals Fate
Chasing 293, Pakistan crumbled to 32/5 inside 12 overs. New Zealand’s pace trio—Ben Sears (5-59), Jacob Duffy (3-35), and Will O’Rourke (1-19)—exploited the seaming pitch, dismissing stars like Babar Azam (1) and Mohammad Rizwan (5) cheaply. Only Faheem Ashraf (73) and concussion substitute Naseem Shah (51) offered resistance, adding 60 runs. Pakistan folded for 208 in 41.2 overs.
Key Performances: Faheem Ashraf Shines in Defeat
Despite the loss, Faheem Ashraf emerged as Pakistan’s hero. His 73 off 80 balls included 7 fours and 2 sixes, showcasing grit amid chaos. Partnering with Naseem Shah, he delayed New Zealand’s victory and became the only Pakistani batter to cross 20 runs.
Match Highlights Table
| Aspect | New Zealand | Pakistan |
| Total Score | 292/8 (47 overs) | 208 (41.2 overs) |
| Top Scorer | Mitchell Hay (99*) | Faheem Ashraf (73) |
| Best Bowler | Ben Sears (5-59) | Sufiyan Muqeem (2-33) |
| Key Partnership | Hay-Abbas (77 runs) | Ashraf-Naseem (60 runs) |
The third ODI will be played on April 5 in Mount Maunganui. New Zealand, having already secured the series, will aim for a clean sweep. Pakistan, meanwhile, will look to salvage pride.
FAQs: New Zealand vs Pakistan 2nd ODI 2025
Where can I watch the New Zealand vs Pakistan ODI series live?
The series is broadcast on major sports networks like Sky Sports (NZ) and PTV Sports (Pakistan). Live streaming is available on platforms like ESPN+ and Willow TV.
How did Faheem Ashraf perform in the 2nd ODI?
Faheem Ashraf scored 73 runs off 80 balls, Pakistan’s highest in the match. His partnership with Naseem Shah (51) was the team’s lone bright spot.
Who was the Player of the Match?
New Zealand’s Mitchell Hay won the award for his unbeaten 99*, which included a 22-run final over.
What is Pakistan’s biggest concern after this loss?
The top-order collapse (32/5) exposed batting frailties. Stars like Babar Azam and Imam-ul-Haq failed to deliver.
How many wickets did Ben Sears take?
Ben Sears claimed his first ODI five-wicket haul (5-59), dismantling Pakistan’s middle and lower order.
