It is not every day that a part-time spin bowler outsmarts a batter of Kane Williamson’s ability. But it happened during the ODI tri-series final between Pakistan and New Zealand when the star batter was totally out of the line for an incoming delivery from Salman Ali Agha and had to return to the pavilion disappointed.
Salman Ali Agha outfoxes Kane Williamson
The incident took during the 18th of the game as Pakistan won the toss and elected to bat first at the National Stadium in Karachi, setting up a total of 243 runs for the Blackcaps to chase down and lift the trophy. In response, New Zealand did not have the start they wanted as their opener Will Young was sent back to the pavilion early by Naseem Shah.
Williamson and Devon Conway then developed a solid partnership for the 3rd wicket and added some crucial runs on the board. Pakistan desperate to break the partnership to defend their relatively low total, decided Salman to bowl for a change. Pakistan’s star performer, however, struck early on in his spell as he bowled a fuller-length slow ball, significantly reducing his speed to 82 kmph. Williamson in hopes of a quicker full-length delivery, stepped in out of the crease and completely missed the ball which hit the middle and leg stump to mark the end of Williamson’s innings.
Here’s the video:
A 𝒃𝒊𝒈 moment in the game!
Williamson is outsmarted by @SalmanAliAgha1 🎯#3Nations1Trophy | #PAKvNZ pic.twitter.com/l20NR8nYdQ
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) February 14, 2025
Also Read: Ahmed Shehzad slams Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan for taking ‘brainless decision’ ahead of Champions Trophy 2025
New Zealand held their ground to secure a famous win
Despite Williamson’s departure, the Blackcaps’ innings did not derail as the visitors held their ground during the run-chase. Significant contributions from Daryl Mitchell and Tom Latham in the middle order further consolidated New Zealand’s momentum as they managed to achieve the target in 45.2 overs to secure a famous win and win the ODI tri-nation series. New Zealand had a remarkable run in the tri-series in which they outperformed Pakistan and South Africa. The Blackcaps dominated Pakistan during the opening match of the series and then triumphed over South Africa to reach the finals of the series.
Also Read: New Zealand clinch ODI tri-series with commanding 5-wicket win over Pakistan in the final
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