T20I: Joy for Pakistan with historic New Zealand series triumph

The much-improved Pakistan side amassed a competitive total of 137/6 from their 20 overs and bowled well to restrict the hosts and register a series-clinching victory, reports ICC.It was the first time Pakistan have won a T20I series against the White Ferns in their history, while it was also their first T20I series triumph away from home since they defeated Bangladesh in October 2018.And it was a much-deserved victory too, with the visitors receiving good contributions with the bat from Muneeba Ali (35), Aliya Riaz (32*) and former captain Bismah Maroof (21) as they amassed a good total after being sent into bat by the Kiwis.Left-arm spinner Sadia Iqbal then removed Bernadine Bezuidenhout (2) and Amelia Kerr (2) to help reduce New Zealand to 9/2 in reply and there was no way back for the hosts as Pakistan cruised home with little trouble.Fatima Sana (3/22) was the pick of the Pakistan bowlers, while Hannah Rowe top-scored for the home side with a well-compiled 33.The third and final game of the series will be held in Queenstown on Saturday. --IANS cs/

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