The third and final One-Day International (ODI) of the Pakistan tour of New Zealand is underway at the Bay Oval, with the Black Caps aiming to complete a clean sweep against a struggling Pakistan side. As of 9:23 PM PDT on April 4, 2025 (which corresponds to 4:23 PM local time on April 5 in New Zealand), the match is in full swing, delivering thrilling cricket action to fans worldwide. With New Zealand already securing a 2-0 series lead, this game offers Pakistan a chance to salvage pride and momentum ahead of future engagements.
New Zealand vs Pakistan 3rd ODI: Live Score Updates from Mount Maunganui
New Zealand vs Pakistan 3rd ODI Match Overview
Pakistan won the toss and elected to field first, hoping to exploit early conditions under sunny skies at Mount Maunganui. The decision initially paid dividends as their bowlers made inroads into New Zealand’s batting lineup. However, a resilient performance from the hosts has kept them in a commanding position.
As per the latest updates, New Zealand finished their innings at 264/8 in 50 overs, setting Pakistan a target of 265 to chase. Fifties from captain Michael Bracewell and opener Rhys Mariu anchored the innings, while Pakistan’s bowlers, led by Naseem Shah and Faheem Ashraf, fought back to restrict the scoring in the death overs.
Live Score Updates
- New Zealand Innings:
- End of Innings: New Zealand 264/8 (50 overs). Michael Bracewell (63) and Rhys Mariu (58) were the standout performers, stitching together a crucial partnership to steady the ship after early setbacks. Muhammad Abbas (32) and Mitchell Hay (28) provided late impetus.
- Key Moments: Pakistan struck early with Akif Javed dismissing Nick Kelly for 3 in the third over, leaving New Zealand at 13/1. The hosts recovered through Bracewell and Mariu, reaching 242/6 by the 40th over, as reported on X. However, a late collapse saw them lose wickets in quick succession, with Naseem Shah (2/42) and Faheem Ashraf (2/38) tightening the screws.
- Pakistan Bowling: Naseem Shah and Faheem Ashraf led the attack, supported by Sufiyan Muqeem (1/45) and Mohammad Wasim Jr (1/50). The bowlers’ discipline in the final 10 overs limited New Zealand to just 22 runs for the loss of 2 wickets after the 40-over mark.
- Pakistan Chase:
- As of the latest update, Pakistan’s innings has just begun. At 4/0 after 1 over, openers Abdullah Shafique and Imam-ul-Haq are at the crease, facing a disciplined New Zealand attack led by Ben Sears and Jacob Duffy. The visitors will need a strong start to keep their hopes alive in this chase of 265.
Team Lineups
- New Zealand: Rhys Mariu, Nick Kelly, Henry Nicholls, Daryl Mitchell, Michael Bracewell (c), Muhammad Abbas, Mitchell Hay (wk), Nathan Smith, Ben Sears, Jacob Duffy, William O’Rourke.
- Pakistan: Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan (c & wk), Salman Agha, Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Naseem Shah, Sufiyan Muqeem, Akif Javed.
Series Context
New Zealand have dominated the series so far. In the first ODI on March 29 at Napier, Mark Chapman’s 132 powered them to a 73-run victory. The second ODI on April 1 in Hamilton saw Ben Sears claim a five-wicket haul, leading to an 84-run win as Pakistan crumbled to 208 chasing 293. Pakistan’s batting has struggled to adapt to the pace and bounce of New Zealand conditions, while their bowling has shown flashes of brilliance but lacked consistency.
Posts on X reflect the current sentiment, with fans praising Bracewell’s leadership and Mariu’s composure, while others note Pakistan’s resilience in the field despite their series deficit. One user highlighted, “Fifties from Bracewell and Mariu take NZ to 264/8—Pakistan have a fight on their hands now.”
What’s at Stake
For New Zealand, a victory today would cap off a perfect series whitewash, boosting their confidence ahead of upcoming international commitments. For Pakistan, a win is crucial not just for pride but to regain form and cohesion as they prepare for the ICC Champions Trophy later this year. Captain Mohammad Rizwan, nursing a bruised shoulder from the second ODI, will be key with both bat and leadership.
How to Follow
The match is being broadcast live on Sony Ten 5, with streaming available on Sony LIV and FanCode. Fans can also track real-time updates on platforms like Cricbuzz, ESPNcricinfo, and NDTV Sports, which provide ball-by-ball commentary and detailed scorecards.
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