ISLAMABAD: The hopes of Pakistani cricket fallowers were crushed as New Zealand emerged victorious in the 5th One Day International, avoiding the series whitewash against the hosts at National Cricket Arena.
Though the Men in Green won the cricket series 4-1, Sunday’s defeat proved the national side’s reign at the main of the International Cricket Council (ICC) Men’s One Day International Rankings short-lived, as they slipped down to No. 3 just 48 hours after claiming it for the first time in history.
Regretting the loss, Pakistan’s power hitter Iftikhar Ahmed apologised to the cricket fans.
Iftikhar said, “I’m sorry, Pakistan. We should have ended on the right side of the match, but it was not to be.”
I am sorry Pakistan. We should’ve ended on the right side of the match, but it wasn’t to be. Nevertheless, I am enjoying my cricket and thankful for the return to ODI arena. #IftiMania pic.twitter.com/7QVlhRrDB5
— Iftikhar Ahmad (@IftiMania) May 7, 2023
He said he enjoyed cricket and was grateful for his return to the ODIs.
Iftikhar made a solid effort during Pakistan’s chase of the 300-run target, but wickets kept falling after regular intervals, making it difficult for the Pakistani players to secure victory.
The right-hand middle-order batter remained unbeaten on 94, which included 8 boundaries and 2 maximums. But, his effort was unsuccessful as the Kiwis players contained Pakistan to 252 runs.
Pakistani side Agha Salman remained prominent with the bat, scoring 57 runs. After losing quick wickets at the top, Iftikhar and Agha stitched a 97-run partnership to take the Pakistani team back into the competition.
Rachin Ravindra and Henry Shipley claimed 3 wickets, contributing to New Zealand’s triumph.
