Mitchell Hay blasted 99 not out – his highest score for New Zealand – to help the Black Caps to a total of 292-8 in the second ODI against Pakistan today.
The 24-year-old Hay went on the attack late in New Zealand’s innings to help his side to a competitive total on a pitch which gave assistance to Pakistan’s slow bowlers after a bright start from the home side.
In reply, Pakistan were bowled out for 208 in the 42 over, New Zealand enjoying an 84-run victory.
Batting at No.7 at Hamilton’s Seddon Oval, Hay’s innings came off only 78 deliveries. He hit seven fours and seven sixes, including two sixes in the final over (as well as two fours) and two sixes in the 48th.
Hay hit seven sixes on his way to an unbeaten 99 in Hamilton. (Source: TVNZ)
A limited overs specialist, Hay made his debut for New Zealand last year. His previous highest score was 49, scored against Sri Lanka in Pallekele last November.
He was one of the few to capitalise on a good start for the Black Caps.
Rhys Mariu, on debut for New Zealand, made 18 in a bright opening stand of 52 with Nick Kelly (31), with Henry Nicholls (22), Daryl Mitchell (18), skipper Michael Bracewell (17)and Muhammad Abbas (41) also getting starts.
Spinner Sufiyan Muqeem was Pakistan’s best bowler and helped put on the brakes with 2-33 off his 10 overs, including the wickets of Mitchell and Abbas.
Only Faheem Ashraf (73) and Naseem Shah (51) scored totals of any note for Pakistan, who were 32-5 in the 12th over.
Seamer Ben Sears was the best of New Zealand's bowlers, with 5-59 in his third ODI. Jacob Duffy took 3-35.
New Zealand, who won the recent T20 series against Pakistan 4-1, have an unassailable 2-0 lead in the ODI series. The final match is in Mount Maunganui on Saturday.
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