T20 World Cup 2021 | Win over New Zealand is dedicated to Pakistan security forces, says Mohammad Hafeez

After handing a resounding 10-wicket defeat to arch-rivals India on Sunday in Dubai, Pakistan continued their good form and outplayed the Kane Williamson-led side on Tuesday in Sharjah. Batting first, New Zealand started off well as their openers Martin Guptill and Daryl Mitchell added 36 runs for the first wicket before the former fell to Haris Rauf in the fifth over. The Kiwi batsmen tried their best to put up a decent score, but Rauf restricted the batsman from scoring runs, and scalped three more wickets to his name. The Pakistan pacer ended with brilliant figures of 4/22. Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Hafeez, and Imad Wasim clinched one wicket each, and helped their side to restrict New Zealand to 134/8.

“Dedicating this win to all security forces of Pakistan. Well done boys keep working hard for Cup. In Shaa Allah. Pakistan Zindabad,” said Hafeez on Twitter. 

Earlier in September this year, New Zealand had arrived in Pakistan for the first time since 2003 and were scheduled to play a three-match ODI series in Rawalpindi, followed by five-match T20I series in Lahore. However, the NZC withdrew from the series, citing security threats to the New Zealand cricket team. Despite Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan providing assurance, New Zealand decided to stay with thier decision, and the players left the country the day after.

With the win against New Zealand, Pakistan became a strong contender to qualify for the semi-finals. The Babar Azam-led side will next face Afghanistan on Friday, October 28 in Dubai.