New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson fell agonizingly short of a century on his return to the playing eleven against Pakistan. Williamson, five runs short of a ton, was caught by Iftikhar Ahmed close to the boundary as he looked to cross the threshold in style. Fakhar Zaman trapped the batter, providing Pakistan a much-needed breakthrough amid a fast start by the Kiwis. (NZ Vs PAK Match Blog | Full Coverage)
Williamson's appearance at the time of the toss in Bengaluru was a welcome sight for cricket fans, and those from New Zealand in particular. the Kiwis had lost their way after a great start to their campaign, losing their previous three matches and putting their spot in the semi-finals at risk. Amid the rising tensions, Williamson's return provided the calm that was required, with the Kiwis racing out of the blocks against a mighty Pakistan bowling attack.
ALSO READ: What If Rain Spoils PAK Vs NZ Match?
Rachin Ravindra and Devon Conway opened the innings for New Zealand, taking their team past 50 before the latter lost his wicket. Ravindra, however, remained steady, setting the Kiwis up for a massive target with his third ton of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. Alongside Williamson, the youngster helped rack up a score of 248 before the New Zealand skipper gave away his wicket to Zaman. Ravindra himself departed minutes later after being caught by Saud Shakeel.
