Allen, bowlers lead New Zealand to big win over Pakistan in tri-series

After losing to Pakistan on Saturday, New Zealand returned stronger today and bagged a big nine-wicket win in the fourth game of the tri-series at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch.

New Zealand's bowlers restricted Pakistan to 130 for seven and chased down the total in 16.1 overs on the loss of one wicket only.

Earlier, Michael Bracewell took the key wickets of the prolific opening pair of Mohammad Rizwan (16) and captain Babar Azam (21) in fine figures of two for 11 from his four overs. 

Tim Southee took two wickets in two balls at the end of the innings. The veteran removed Iftikhar and Mohammad Nawaz with the first two deliveries of the final over but Mohammad Wasim survived the hat-trick ball.

Iftikhar Ahmed top scored with 27, including three fours.while Asif Ali remained not out for 25.

In reply, New Zealand were off to a flying start, courtesy of Finn Allen. The youngster hit his second T20I fifty, scoring 62 runs off 42 balls. He was removed by Shadab Khan, who is now the second-highest wicket-taker for Pakistan in T20Is with 86 wickets.

Devon Conway remained not out on 49 while skipper Kane Williamson chipped in with nine runs as they duo finished the chase in the 17th over.

Both teams, plus Bangladesh, are using the week-long tournament to fine-tune for the T20 World Cup in Australia this month.