Once in danger of being knocked out from the Group stage, Pakistan has now booked a place in the final of the ICC T20 World Cup 2022. New Zealand were beaten by Eight wickets in the first semifinal match at Sydney Cricket Ground.
This is the third appearance of Pakistan in the T20 World Cup final after 2007 and 2009 (Champions). Meanwhile, New Zealand, despite being in the semis for the third consecutive year (finalist in 2021) are yet to clinch the trophy.
Opting to bat first, New Zealand posted 152 in the allotted 20 overs. Daryl Mitchell scored an unbeaten 53, whereas skipper Williamson made a steady 46. Shaheen Afridi once again was the pick of a bowler for Pakistan grabbing two wickets and conceding just 24 runs.
Pakistan, in reply, chased the total with five balls spare after a century opening stand from Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan. Babar scored 53, while Rizwan made 57 to complete their third 100 runs opening partnership in the T20 World Cup. Mohammad Harris also contributed 30 runs. Trent Boult picked up a couple of wickets for the Kiwis.
Pakistan had a poor start to the tournament losing a thriller against India and next to Zimbabwe. But they defeated South Africa, Netherlands, and Bangladesh in the remaining matches to cruise through the semis. Also, the Netherlands played a huge role, defeating South Africa in the final league stage match.
