GEORGETOWN, Guyana (Web Desk) – Pakistan kept their hopes of reaching the semifinals of the IMC Over-40 Cricket World Cup alive with a five-wicket victory over New Zealand, powered by a superb bowling performance from former Pakistan Test fast bowler Mohammad Khalil and impressive batting from Shahryar Ghani and Javed Mansoor.
Chasing a target of 274, Pakistan reached 274 for five in 37.2 overs to secure a convincing victory.
Shahryar Ghani led the successful chase with an unbeaten 79, while Javed Mansoor contributed 55. Adnan Akmal scored 39, while Taufiq Umar and Imran Khan Jr. added 28 runs each to help Pakistan complete the chase comfortably.
Earlier, New Zealand posted 273 for eight in their allotted 45 overs. Lincoln Reid top-scored with 56, while Greg Johnson made 54. Alan Burton contributed 35, Darren Crook remained unbeaten on 34, and Ben Rapson scored 30.
Mohammad Khalil spearheaded Pakistan’s bowling attack, claiming three wickets for 34 runs. Nauman Siddiqui, Wasim Ali, Tariq Mahmood and Javed Mansoor took one wicket each.
For New Zealand, Stuart Farquhar took two wickets, while Darren Crook, Ben Rapson and Greg Johnson claimed one wicket apiece.
Shahryar Ghani was named Player of the Match for his outstanding unbeaten innings.
Pakistan will play their final group-stage match against the United States today. A victory would keep their semifinal qualification hopes alive.
