New Zealand pip India to top the Super League standings

New Zealand is now leading the ICC Cricket World Cup Super League standings after defeating Pakistan by 79 runs in the second One-Day International in Karachi.

With their victory, New Zealand has surpassed Pakistan (130) and India (139) to take the top spot in the ICC Cricket World Cup Super League standings with 140 points.

The Kiwis also succeeded in levelling the series at 1-1 by recovering from their six-wicket loss in the opening ODI. The series finale will now take place on January 13 at Karachi’s National Stadium.

The series championship game has significance for the CWCSL in addition to the bragging rights of series victory. With a victory, Pakistan might overtake India and move up to second place in the Super League standings, while New Zealand could widen their lead at the top.

Pakistan (108 rating) drops to fifth place, one point behind India (109 rating), as a result of the defeat, in the MRF Tyres ICC Men’s ODI Team Rankings. With a grade of 115, New Zealand, on the other hand, maintains its lead in the rankings.

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Choosing to bat first, New Zealand amassed a respectable total of 261 thanks to a stand of 181 runs between Devon Conway and Kane Williamson at the second wicket.

Williamson (85) was content to take a backseat as Conway (101) attacked Pakistan’s bowling on the way to his second ODI century.

Following that, the visitors lost all strength because to Mohammad Nawaz’s magnificent 4/34 spell. Pakistan’s aim of 262 was established by Mitchell Santner, who persisted and played a vital innings of 37.

In response, Babar Azam led Pakistan in scoring with 79 but struggled mightily during his 114-ball stint at the crease. The use of three spinners by New Zealand paid off as they controlled the score.

The hosts were unable to maintain the necessary scoring rate due to frequent wicket losses and eventually succumbed as pressure mounted.

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