New Zealand defeated Pakistan by 84 runs in the second ODI of the three-match series at Seddon Park on Wednesday, taking a 2-0 lead in the series.

Chasing a target of 293, Pakistan’s batting lineup crumbled under pressure from New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack, eventually being dismissed for 208 in 41.2 overs.

Pakistan’s top order collapsed early, with Abdullah Shafique (1), Imam-ul-Haq (3), and Babar Azam (1) falling cheaply. Mohammad Rizwan (5) and Salman Agha (9) also failed to make an impact as Pakistan found themselves struggling at 65-5.

Tayyab Tahir (13) attempted to steady the innings, but wickets continued to fall at regular intervals. All-rounder Faheem Ashraf provided resistance with a well-fought 73 off 80 balls, while Naseem Shah contributed with his maiden ODI fifty (51 off 41). However, their efforts were not enough as Pakistan was bowled out for 208.

Earlier, New Zealand set a competitive total of 292, led by key partnerships in the middle order. 

Pakistan’s skipper Mohammad Rizwan admitted the team struggled to handle New Zealand’s bowling attack. “We didn’t utilise the swing effectively, and New Zealand bowled very well,” Rizwan said in the post-match presentation. 

The defeat follows Pakistan’s 73-run loss in the first ODI on March 29, where Mark Chapman’s century and Nathan Smith’s four-wicket haul secured victory for New Zealand. Prior to the ODI series, New Zealand had also clinched the five-match T20I series 4-1 against Pakistan.

The third and final ODI of the series will take place in Tauranga, where Pakistan will aim to avoid a clean sweep.