Pakistan team made the day of their supporters and former cricketers after they defeated New Zealand in the first semi-final of the T20 World Cup 2022 in Sydney on November 9, 2022, and qualified for their third final in the event ever.
Once considered all but out of the T20 World Cup, the Pakistan cricket team scripted a dramatic comeback into the tournament to qualify for the semi-finals. they had to beat Bangladesh and only qualified for the knockouts because the Netherlands had shocked South Africa earlier.
However, New Zealand didn’t prove to be a challenge for the Babar Azam-led side as on an SCG pitch that suited Pakistani bowlers and batters, the target of 153 proved to be minuscule. Both openers Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam hit half-centuries and Mohammad Haris’ quick 30 runs ensured Pakistan won by 7 wickets and qualified for the finals for the third time after 2007, and 2009.
Earlier New Zealand only managed 152/4 with Daryl Mitchell making 53* and Kane Williamson made 46, with Shaheen Afridi picking two wickets.
In the aftermath of the victory, legendary Pakistani players- Wasim Akram, Shoaib Malik, Misbah-ul-Haq, and Waqar Younis- who are on the panel of A Sports TV show ‘The Pavilion’ celebrated the win by dancing in the studio, the video of which was shared on social media by Waqar Younis.
Babar, speaking of his team's performance at the post-match presentation ceremony, said: "Thanks to the crowd. We feel like we're playing at home. Got a good start with the first 6 overs with the ball. Later on the ball didn't come on well. Fast bowlers finished well. We planned before going that we'll utilise the powerplay. He's a young guy and showing his aggression (Haris). He's playing very well. We're going to enjoy this moment. But at the same time have focus on the final."
Pakistan will now wait for the victor of the India v England semi-final, which will be played in Adelaide tomorrow, in the summit clash in Melbourne on Sunday.
