Patel spins New Zealand to thrilling 4-run victory
Abu Dhabi, Nov. 19: Debutant spinner Ajaz Patel took five wickets to lead New Zealand bowlers as they pulled off a thrilling four-run win over an indisciplined Pakistan in the first Test in Abu Dhabi on Monday.
Defending a modest 176run target, New Zealand bowlers led by Patel (5-59), fast bowler Neil Wagner (227) and Ish Sodhi (2-37) bowled out Pakistan for 171 on the fourth day at Sheikh Zayed Stadium.
It is the fifth smallest win in terms of runs in Test cricket history and gives New Zealand a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
“The attitude, certainly today and throughout the game, was brilliant,” said New Zealand captain Kane Williamson.
“How those two bowlers Ajaz and Wagner bowled, for almost 20 overs, was brilliant. We knew the surface was not an easy one. There was considerable turn from day one and all the spinners bowled well,” he added. Azhar Ali fought a lone battle for Pakistan with 65 and was the last man out when he was trapped leg-before wicket by Patel. He reviewed Bruce Oxenford’s decision but the television replays upheld the decision.
Resuming on 37 without loss, Pakistan began the day as favourites to chase down the 176 they needed for victory.
Kiwi spinners Patel and Ish Sodhi opened the bowling and immediately caused problems as Pakistan lost three wickets in the first six overs.
— BRIEF SCORES New Zealand 153 & 249 bt Pakistan 227 & 171 in
58.4 overs (Azhar Ali 65, Asad Shafiq 45, Ajaz Patel
5/59, Ish Sodhi 2/37, Neil Wagner 2/27).