Babar Azam (Source: Twitter)

In a display of raw power, New Zealand’s star all-rounder, Daryl Mitchell left not just the cricketing world but also a cameraman and his expensive gear shaking after a massive six during the 2nd T20I against Pakistan at Seddon Park in Hamilton.

Mitchell’s aggressive style of play was on full exhibit as he sent an overpitched delivery from Abbas Afridi sailing over long-off, not sparing the camera stationed outside the boundary rope. The ball’s impact left both the equipment and the cameraman in a shaky situation. Babar Azam was also seen shaking hands with the cameraman.

This incident added a touch of humour to the clash between the cricketing giants, where Mitchell, known for his explosive batting, showcased his prowess. In the 1st T20, New Zealand had dominated Pakistan, securing a 46-run victory in Auckland’s Eden Park. The Kiwis, batting first, posted a formidable target of 226, setting the stage for a challenging chase.

Pakistan, despite an aggressive start, couldn’t match the Kiwi bowlers’ consistency. Tim Southee claimed four wickets, while Adam Milne and Ben Sears secured two each, with Ish Sodhi chipping in with one. The collective effort restricted Pakistan, allowing New Zealand to kick off the series and prep for the T20 World Cup in June.

However, in the ongoing 2nd T20 in Hamilton, Pakistan seem to have repeated the mistake of opting to bowl first, and the Blackcaps have not held back in capitalizing on it. Daryl Mitchell, who had earned the Man of the Match in the 1st T20 for his explosive 61 off 27, failed to capitalize on his start in the 2nd T20, falling to Abbas Afridi.

At the time of writing, Pakistan stand at 113 for five in 13 overs in their chase of 195, with Babar Azam and Aamer Jamal at the crease, batting at 43 and eight, respectively. In the first innings, the Kiwis posted a total of 194, thanks to a stellar performance by opener Finn Allen, who scored 74 runs off 41 balls, including seven fours and five sixes. For Pakistan, Haris Rauf was the standout bowler who took three crucial wickets to restrict the Kiwis under 200.