Pakistan’s Saud Shakeel was left in complete disbelief as Michael Bracewell bowled him out in a crucial moment of the Pakistan vs New Zealand ODI Tri-Series Final at the National Stadium, Karachi. The match, which started with Pakistan opting to bat first after winning the toss, saw an early breakthrough for New Zealand before Shakeel and Babar Azam attempted to stabilize the innings.
The dismissal came in the ninth over when Michael Bracewell, introduced into the attack for his first over, struck instantly to send Shakeel back to the pavilion. Bracewell delivered a length ball on the off-stump, which stayed unexpectedly low after pitching. Shakeel, expecting a standard bounce, went back in his crease to play the cut shot. However, the ball skidded through sharply, beating his bat and crashing into the off-stump. The left-hander stood at the crease momentarily, wearing a startled expression, seemingly unable to process what had just happened.
Shakeel had managed to score 8 runs off 14 balls, including one boundary, before being dismissed. His wicket left Pakistan at 46/2 in 8.3 overs, adding pressure on captain Babar Azam, who was batting at 23 off 23 balls at the other end. Earlier, Pakistan had lost Fakhar Zaman for 10 runs, caught by Will Young off William O’Rourke’s bowling.
Bracewell’s breakthrough came at a crucial juncture when Pakistan was looking to build momentum after an initial wobble. His sharp bowling ensured that New Zealand remained in control early in the innings. With Babar Azam still at the crease, Pakistan would have to rethink their approach and aim for a steady rebuild after two early setbacks.