Kane Canes Pakistan Bowlers; Kiwis Remain Strong
Iqbal Jamil
KARACHI: Pakistan still need 97 runs to wipe out the lead of 174 runs in the second innings, as New Zealand declared their first innings at 612/9 in the first test at the National Stadium on Thursday.
At stumps on the fourth day Pakistan were 77 for the loss of Abdullah Shafique and Shan Masood while Imam ul Haq with 45 and night watchman Noman Ali with 5 were at the crease.
Earlier, Kane Williamson played a gem of innings and was in complete command and punished all the Pakistan bowlers with great control. Williamson scored 200 runs in 395 deliveries and remained unbeaten.
Kane Williamson and Ish Sodhi made 159 runs for the seventh in which Sodhi’s contribution was 65 runs in 180 balls. He played a good knock with conviction and was dismissed by Abrar Ahmed. Abrar Ahmed took 5 wickets giving 205 runs while Noman Ali clinched 3 wickets for 185 runs.
Pakistan still trailing by 97 runs need to play with responsibility as the ball is turning and New Zealand’s spinners can force a victory, match depends on Babar Azam and his batters whether they can force a draw.
