New Zealand skipper Michael Bracewell produced a breathtaking moment of brilliance to dismiss Pakistan‘s Usman Khan that turned the tide in his team’s favour during the 3rd ODI match at Mount Maunganui.
Michael Bracewell’s absolute screamer stuns Usman Khan
At 21.3 overs, Pakistan were comfortably placed at 97/1, building a steady platform when Usman looked to up the ante. Facing a short-pitched delivery from Muhammad Abbas that reared up awkwardly from a good length on middle and leg, Usman went for an aggressive pull, but the ball climbed sharply, taking the top edge of the bat.
What followed was nothing short of sensational. The ball ballooned high into the air towards the square leg region, a tough catch even on the best of days. But Bracewell, fielding at short mid-wicket, read the trajectory early. He sprinted across at full pace, never taking his eyes off the ball. As he closed in, he launched himself into a full-stretch dive, both hands extended, and plucked the ball out of the air just inches above the turf—while still mid-flight. The timing, athleticism, and commitment to the effort made it one of the best catches of the match and possibly the tournament.
Bracewell’s spectacular grab not only dismissed Usman for 12 off 17 balls but also reignited New Zealand’s intensity on the field. The wicket was vital in breaking a blossoming partnership and came at a moment when Pakistan were eyeing acceleration. The Kiwi skipper’s energy and fielding prowess served as a rallying cry for his teammates and underscored the importance of leadership by example.
Here’s the video:
What a catch by Bracewell ⚡⚡#Cricket #NZvPAK pic.twitter.com/2CXNViyDwl
— Aman (@Amanriz78249871) April 5, 2025
Also WATCH: Imam-ul-Haq suffers brutal injury after vicious throw; taken off on a stretcher | NZ vs PAK, 3rd ODI
Pakistan in trouble despite Babar Azam’s fifty as New Zealand dominate at Mount Maunganui
In the third ODI of the Pakistan tour of New Zealand at Mount Maunganui on April 5, New Zealand posted a competitive total of 264/8 in their allotted 42 overs. Rhys Mariu’s steady 58 and Bracewell’s explosive 59 off 40 balls, which included a flurry of sixes, anchored the hosts’ innings. Akif Javed was the pick of the bowlers for Pakistan, returning with impressive figures of 4 for 62.
Chasing 265 under the DLS-revised target, Pakistan’s innings got off to a slow start. They suffered an early blow when Imam-ul-Haq retired hurt at just 5/0 in the third over. Although Babar Azam brought some stability with a composed 50 off 58 balls, the visitors struggled to keep up with the required run rate. Usman Khan and Abdullah Shafique chipped in with brief cameos, but wickets at regular intervals derailed Pakistan’s momentum.
Currently, Pakistan stands at 143/4 after 28 overs, needing 122 runs from the remaining 84 balls. Mohammad Rizwan and Tayyab Tahir are at the crease, with Rizwan showing intent at a strike rate of 120.00. However, with the required run rate climbing to 8.71, the pressure is mounting.
Among New Zealand’s bowlers, Ben Sears was the standout performer, bagging two crucial wickets and maintaining tight lines to restrict Pakistan’s scoring. Bracewell and Daryl Mitchell also contributed with economical spells, applying consistent pressure. With just 14 overs remaining and six wickets in hand, Pakistan faces an uphill task.
