Pakistan has won a Test series after a long gap of four years – their last Test series win was against the West Indies in late 2006.
Pakistan needed 274 for victory on the final day. The visitors looked well placed at 160-3 just before tea. However, once Younis Khan fell in the last over before tea, Pakistan seemed to call off their chase. They were unwilling to risk a rare series victory and took a no-risk approach in the final session to ensure a draw.
Earlier, three wickets fell in the first session but Younis Khan (81) and captain Misbah-ul-Haq (70 not out) played responsibly adding 118 for the fourth wicket. The good thing about this partnership was that they dealt with Daniel Vettori in a professional way negating his threat on a final day pitch.
After Younis exit, Misbah-ul-Haq got an able ally in Asad Shafiq as both started to bat Pakistan to safety.
In the final hour, Vettori trapped Asad Shafiq for 24 to leave Pakistan 215-5.
In the end Pakistan ended with 226 for five to comfortably draw the match and claim a 1-0 series victory. Misbah was adjudged Man of the Match for his scores of 99 and 70*. It was a heartening victory and a good start for 2011 for Pakistan. The team shouldn’t be disillusioned with this victory against an off colour New Zealand and should aim for the World Cup next month.
Star of the day: Pakistan needed another heroic effort and Younis Khan stood up yet again. Younis, it has emerged, specialises in the last day match saving innings. Younis batted with resolve to stabilize Pakistan innings. He made 81 off 155 balls including 10 fours before edging one behind in the last over before tea.
Moment that Mattered: Hosts struck early in the day when Taufeeq Umar was trapped in front by Tim Southee and Pakistan were 42 for three. Azhar Ali (10) was trapped in front by Chris Martin and Mohammad Hafeez was caught by Ross Taylor off the same bowler for 32. At this point Younis Khan joined hands with captain Misbah-ul-Haq as the both the seniors took Pakistan to safety.
