Rizwan reflects on Pakistan’s defeat in second ODI against New Zealand

HAMILTON: Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan didn’t shy away from addressing his team’s shortcomings after an 84-run defeat in the second ODI here at Seddon Park on Wednesday, which handed New Zealand an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

Speaking at the post-match presentation, Rizwan acknowledged Pakistan’s struggles, particularly with the bat, and admitted that his side failed to make the necessary adjustments in challenging conditions.

“We didn’t utilize the swing as well as they did, and our batting was disappointing, especially after seeing how Faheem and Naseem fought in the latter part,” Rizwan said.

“The conditions are challenging and different from Asia, but we can’t make excuses. We are professional cricketers, and we need to do something different.”

Pakistan’s batting woes were once again on full display as they crumbled to 32-5 inside the first 10 overs, unable to counter New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack.

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Mohammad Rizwan credited the Blackcaps for their effective strategy while lamenting his own team’s repeated mistakes.

“The bowlers of New Zealand were very disciplined; they bowled the hard lengths, and we kept repeating the same mistakes throughout the series. Today, we didn’t perform well with the ball or the bat in the first 10 overs,” he admitted.

The Pakistan captain also heaped praise on Mitchell Hay, who played a match-winning knock of 99* off 78 balls to propel New Zealand to a competitive total of 292-8.

“Mitch Hay batted well, which helped them post a big total. They had the perfect start, understood the conditions, and used them to their advantage, while we couldn’t adapt as well,” Rizwan added.

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