New Zealand set a target of 153 runs to chase for Pakistan in 20 overs in the first semifinal clash of the T20 World Cup. Pakistani bowlers put the Kiwi batters on the backfoot from the first over itself. They dominated the powerplay, reducing the Black Caps to 38/2. However, Kane Williamson and Darryl Mitchell’s 50+ run partnership helped the Kiwis reach 152/4 in 20 overs.
Many Twitter users blasted the skipper of the Black Caps for his slow innings. Some users said that the slow innings of 46 runs off 42 balls may cost them the match.
See the tweets here:
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However, other Twitter users came out in support of him, saying that it was his innings, that helped New Zealand rebuild their innings.
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Earlier in the game, the Kiwis won the toss and decided to bowl first. Allen hit Shaheen Shah Afridi directly to the mid on for a first ball four. He was dismissed by LBW on the following ball, but a review showed that there was a sizable inside edge. Afridi, however, had his man on the third ball. Allen reviewed again, but this time he had to leave because Ultraedge revealed that no bat involved.
In the second over, Devin Conway just avoided being out when the ball narrowly missed the stumps. However, Shadab Khan‘s direct hit sent him back to the pavilion in the next over.
Glenn Phillips, who is in good form, was subsequently removed by Mohammad Nawaz, reducing New Zealand to 49/3. Darryl Mitchell and Kane Williamson, though, assisted in reviving the Kiwis’ innings. Shaheen Shah Afridi ended their half-century stand. New Zealand reached 152/4 thanks to Mitchell’s unbeaten 53 and Williamson’s knock of 46 off 42.
