Islamabad, April 3, 2025: Pakistan suffered an 84-run defeat against New Zealand in the second ODI at Seddon Park in in Hamilton, giving the hosts an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.
This loss came after a 4-1 defeat of the Green Shirts against the inexperienced home side in the preceding five-match T20I series last month.
While chasing a 293-run target on a pace-friendly surface, the national batting department collapsed early, slipping to 114 for eight in 28.2 overs.
However, late resilience from start pacer Naseem Shah and bowling all-rounder Faheem Ashraf helped the national unit reduce the margin of defeat.
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Faheem Ashraf fought hard, scoring 73 off 80 balls, including nine boundaries. The right-arm pacer played a crucial innings, contributing 51 off 44 deliveries.
His knock made him the second-highest scorer for Pakistan while batting at No. 11, behind Mohammad Amir, who had scored 58 against England in an ODI in 2016.
The Dir-born cricketer also surpassed former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar, who had made 43 runs against England during the 2003 World Cup.
With the series already decided, Pakistan will look to salvage some pride in the third and final ODI, scheduled for Saturday, April 5, at Bay Oval.
Speaking after the match, Faheem Ashraf urged the players to support each other rather than focusing solely on individual performances.
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The right-handed bowler believed that fostering unity within the national team could help them end their losing streak.
Faheem pointed out that every player was making an effort to secure victories, but success required collective backing rather than isolated contributions.
According to the 31-year-old cricketer, merely fulfilling personal responsibilities and stepping aside would not lead to progress.
Faheem Ashraf remained confident, stressing that winning for the Green Shirts was possible with the right mindset and competitive cricket.
