Clinical New Zealand brush aside Pakistan in tri-series final

New Zealand delivered a commanding performance to defeat Pakistan by five wickets in the tri-series final, with Daryl Mitchell and Tom Latham scoring crucial half-centuries to chase down a target of 243 in 45.2 overs.

Pakistan, having chosen to bat first in Karachi, struggled to build momentum as they lost wickets at key moments. Babar Azam, looking in fine touch, became the joint-fastest to 6000 ODI runs but fell against the run of play, spooning a catch back to Nathan Smith in the 12th over. The innings saw brief resistance from Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha, but they too fell before the final push. Tayyab Tahir attempted to accelerate late on, only to be dismissed by Jacob Duffy in the 42nd over.

Mitchell Santner's 2 for 20 in 10 overs kept Pakistan under pressure, while Will O'Rourke picked up two wickets in the final over to complete a four-wicket haul as Pakistan were bowled out for 242.

New Zealand's chase began with an early setback as Naseem Shah removed a batter cheaply, but Kane Williamson and Devon Conway steadied the innings with a 71-run stand. They survived a testing spell from Naseem and Shaheen Afridi before taking control. Williamson's dismissal for 34 to Salman Ali Agha briefly gave Pakistan hope, but Latham and Mitchell ensured there were no further slip-ups.

This victory further strengthens New Zealand's preparations for the upcoming Champions Trophy, where they have adapted well to subcontinental conditions. Their bowlers have been relentless, while their batting unit looks settled, making them strong contenders for the tournament.

For Pakistan, the match also served as a crucial test ahead of hosting the Champions Trophy, the country's first major ICC event since 1996. The Pakistan Cricket Board sees the tournament as an opportunity to restore national pride, with extensive security measures being put in place across key locations in Lahore, Karachi, Rawalpindi, and Islamabad.