Abu Dhabi: Debutant spinner Ajaz Patel took five wickets to lead New Zealand bowlers as they pulled off a thrilling four-run win over an indisciplined Pakistan in the first Test in Abu Dhabi on Monday.
Defending a modest 176-run target, New Zealand bowlers led by Patel (5-59), fast bowler Neil Wagner (2-27) and Ish Sodhi (2-37) bowled out Pakistan for 171 on the fourth day at Sheikh Zayed Stadium.
It is the fifth smallest win in terms of runs in Test cricket history and gives New Zealand a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
“The attitude, certainly today and throughout the game, was brilliant,” said New Zealand captain Kane Williamson.
“How those two bowlers Ajaz and Wagner bowled, for almost 20 overs, was brilliant. We knew the surface was not an easy one. There was considerable turn from day one and all the spinners bowled well,” he added. Azhar Ali fought a lone battle for Pakistan with 65 and was the last man out when he was trapped leg-before wicket by Patel. He reviewed Bruce Oxenford’s decision but the television replays upheld the decision.
Resuming on 37 without loss, Pakistan began the day as favourites to chase down the 176 they needed for victory.
Kiwi spinners Patel and Ish Sodhi opened the bowling and immediately caused problems as Pakistan lost three wickets in the first six overs.
Brief scores
New Zealand 153 & 249 bt Pakistan 227 & 171 in 58.4 overs (Azhar Ali 65, Asad Shafiq 45, Ajaz Patel 5/59, Ish Sodhi 2/37, Neil Wagner 2/27).
Narrowest wins in Tests
Margin Season
1 run WI bt Aus 1992-93
2 runs Eng bt Aus 2005
3 runs Aus bt Eng 1902
3 runs Eng bt Aus 1982-83
4 runs NZ bt Pak 2018-19
5 runs SA vs Aus 1993-94
6 runs Aus vs Eng 1884-85
7 runs Aus vs Eng 1882
7 runs SA vs SL 2000
7 runs NZ vs Aus 2010-11
Stats: S. PERVEZ QAISER
