The third and final ODI between New Zealand and Pakistan turned out to be an extremely close game as the hosts just managed to get past the victory line. The game though, would be best remembered for controversial reasons, courtesy a dubious decision given by Billy Bowden.
Pakistan batted first, and riding on youngster Babar Azam’s 83, got to 290. The visitors however, were bowled out with 15 balls to spare and it was another typical Pakistani collapse which ruined their hopes of getting to a mammoth total. After being 215-3 in 31 overs, the Pakistanis lost their way and allowed the Brendon McCullum led New Zealand to stage a comeback.
New Zealand lost skipper McCullum for a duck, but the reliable combo of Martin Guptill and Kane Williamson steadied the ship at a brisk rate. The slower bowlers though, caused some panic as the Blackcaps were reduced to 210-5 in simply no time. Rain had a massive influence in the game and by the time the match resumed, New Zealand needed 53 off 7.3 overs. The hosts were always in the driver’s seat till all rounder Corey Anderson was there in the middle.
However, with the score reading 225-5 and more 38 needed off 27, Rahat Ali induced a thick edge off Anderson’s willow. The Pakistanis began celebrated, only to witness umpire Billy Bowden stand still at his position. The snicko showed a massive deflection and the cut shot attempted too had a major deflection. The decision turned out to be a cruel one for Pakistan as the Kiwis eventually won the game with 2 balls to spare.
Check out the video below of the controversial incident.
Video – Billy Bowden Decision Of Corey Anderson #NZvPAK #PakvsNZ pic.twitter.com/TdQUriZPle
— Riaz Ahmad Maan (@RiazMaan) January 31, 2016