Mount Maunganui: New Zealand emerged victorious in the third and final One Day International (ODI) against Pakistan, clinching the series with a 3-0 sweep. The host team secured a 43-run win in a match that saw both sides delivering competitive performances.

After winning the toss, Pakistan opted to field first. New Zealand set a target of 264 runs for the loss of eight wickets. Michael Bracewell led the scoring for New Zealand with 59 runs, closely followed by Rhys Mariu, who contributed with 58 runs. Akif Javed was the standout bowler for Pakistan, taking four wickets.

In response, Pakistan struggled to reach the target. Babar Azam was the top scorer for the visiting team, achieving a half-century and hitting four boundaries along with one six. Muhammad Rizwan added 37 runs to the scoreboard.

New Zealand’s bowling attack was spearheaded by Ben Sears, who took four crucial wickets, further cementing the team’s control over the match and the series.