World T20: New Zealand beat Pakistan by 22 runs

Pakistan managed 158 runs for the loss of 5 wickets after a solid start by the openers saw them post 66 runs for the loss of 1 wicket in the mandatory powerplay.

Sharjeel Khan provided his side with a glimmer of hope as he hammered 47 runs off 25 balls, sending the Kiwi bowlers for a leather hand.

His departure opened up the door for New Zealand as the Kiwi bowlers bowled immaculate line, aided by the inability of the Pakistani batsmen to clear the rope.

Shahid Afridi (19), who was promoted up the order, tonked a six and hit 2 boundaries but fell short as he was picked up by Ish Sodhi.

Umar Akmal (24) and Ahmed Shehzad (30) were the others who contibuted to their score, but both the batsmen failed to score with a strike rate in excess to 100.

Mitchell Santner and Adam Milne picked up 2 wickets each while Ish Sodhi picked one.    

Earlier, Kane Williamson won the toss and decided to bat first.

Propelled by Martin Guptill's 80, the Kiwis posted a competitive 180 runs for the loss of 5 wickets.

Guptill's 48-ball knock consisted of 10 fours and 3 sixes.

He and Williamson provided yet another good start for their team as the opening wicket partnership provided them with 62 runs.

After the departure of Williamson (17), Guptill partnered with Corey Anderson (21) for the 3rd wicket to put on another 50 plus runs.

Ross Taylor too played a handy innings of 36 runs off 23 balls.

For Pakistan, Shahid Afridi and Mohammad Sami picked up a couple of wickets each, while Mohammad Irfan accounted for a scalp.

Guptill was adjudged the player of the match.