New Zealand Beat Pakistan to enter semis

New Zealand beat Pakistan to enter semis

Mohali: New Zealand skipper Stephen Fleming, leading his side in a record 194th one-day international, inspired his side to a 51-run win over Pakistan in their ICC Champions Trophymatch at the Punjab Cricket Association stadium in Mohali on Wednesday.

With this win, the Black caps have assured themselves of a semi-final berth, having earlier comprehensively beaten South Africa. Fleming was adjudged Man of the Match.

Chasing the victory target of 275, Pakistan were bowled out for 223 in 46.3 overs.

Earlier in the day, the Kiwis after being sent into bat by Pakistan skipper Younis Khan posted 274 for seven – the highest score in any match of the league stage in this edition of the Champions Trophy.

After losing early wickets and being severely restricted by the Pakistan attack in upping the run rate for the first 30 overs, Fleming played a captain's knock as he first stabilised the innings in the company of Scott Styris and then shifted gears to up the scoring.

Pakistan too lost early wickets and were four down for 83 runs on the board.

Imran Farhat was the first to go as he holed out to Kyle Mills at the third man fence off a Shane Bond delivery.

Younis Khan also did not last long. He was caught by Louis Vincent at point off a Mills delivery.

Mohammad Hafeez scored a pacy 43 with eight boundaries before he was caught behind by Brendon McCullum off Jacob Oram.

Oram picked up his second wicket when he sent back danger-man Shahid Afridi as the batsman tried to go for a pull but only ended up giving an easy catch to Bond.

Mohammad Yousuf and Shoaib Malik then forged a 94-run partnership before the Pakistan vice captain was caught by Stephen Fleming off the bowling of Bond for 71. His 91-ball knock was studded with nine boundaries.