Pakistan have booked their place in the T20 World Cup final with a six-wicket victory over New Zealand in Sydney.
Ahead of the final group games, Pakistan appeared likely to be eliminated, but South Africa's shock defeat to the Netherlands led to a runners-up spot in Group 2.
The Falcons have now earned a spot in their first World Cup final in 13 years with a largely dominant performance over 2021 runners-up New Zealand.
Having won the toss and elected to bat, New Zealand would have been confident of setting a match-winning score, even with Finn Allen being dismissed for just four with the third ball of the innings.
However, the Black Caps posted just 10 fours and two sixes during their 20 overs, taking away from Kane Williamson contributing 46 and Daryl Mitchell hitting a 35-ball 53.
Pakistan storm into the #T20WorldCup final! 💥#NZvPAK pic.twitter.com/16aE3SitOB
— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) November 9, 2022
Making 152-4 still ensured that Pakistan needed to bat well in their reply, but a dropped catch during the opening over proved decisive as Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam ultimately found some form.
An opening partnership of 105 from 76 balls was compiled before Azam departed for 53, while Rizwan went for 57 with Pakistan still requiring 21 runs from three overs.
Even with wickets in hand, a successful chase was not a formality, but Mohammad Haris chipped in with 30 from 26, turning the game firmly in Pakistan's favour.
Just two runs were required from the final over and a wide was soon followed by a single, leaving Pakistan to celebrate wildly as they bid to win the tournament for the first time since 2009.
Their win on Wednesday also sets up the possibility of a final with fierce rivals India, who play England in Adelaide on Thursday.
Darren Plant
