Farhat helps Pakistan achieving 223 runs against New Zealand
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Farhat helps Pakistan achieving 223 runs against New Zealand
Pakistan finished their first innings on 223 after 64 overs with Danesh Kaneria (16) the last wicket to fall, in the first innings of the third test match at Napier. In reply, New Zealand comfortably negotiated the last session and scored 47 runs without losing any wicket. New Zealand were still 176 runs behind with Tim McIntosh (31*) and debutant Bradley-John Watling (13*) at the crease when stumps were drawn for the day. Imran Farhat was the hero for the Pakistani's ending his innings 117 not out, with Tuffey and Iain O'Brien both claiming four wickets respectively.A pleasing total for the visiting side as early on it looked like Pakistan would struggle to reach the 100 runs mark, Farhat's stand lay the platform to their ending total. akistan's decision to bat first, after winning the toss, in a batting-friendly conditions backfired as seamer Ian O'Brien, playing in his final Test before pursuing a county career in England, ripped apart Pakistan's top and middle order. O'Brien finished with figures of 4/35. Tim Southee instigated Pakistan's downfall when he castled Salman Butt for nine, before O'Brien got rid of Faisal Iqbal (6), Yousuf (0), Umar Akmal (0) and Misbah-ul-Haq (0). Pakistan were tottering at 51/5 before Farhat held one end for the visitors and defied Kiwi bowling showing some great resilience. Farhat, who played a brilliant fighting knock, kept attacking Kiwi bowlers from the other end. Kamran Akmal (22), Mohammad Aamer (23) and Umar Gul (24) gave handy contributions down the order and helped the opener to reach his third Test century. New Zealand won the first Test in Dunedin before Pakistan levelled the series at Wellington.
