Blackcaps Rhys Mariu celebrates 50 runs during the 3rd ODI cricket match between the Blackcaps and Pakistan. Photo: Photosport
Pakistan will need 266 runs in the final ODI in Hamilton to void a clean sweep series defeat to the Black Caps.
A blazing half century by skipper Michael Bracewell ensured his side a solid total after a wet outfield saw a delayed start and a reduction in overs form 50 to 42.
New Zealand were sent in to bat and lost opener Nick Kelly early for three.
Rhys Mairu brought up his maiden half century off 55 balls in the 17th before Henry Nicholls sent one skyward to deep square leg.
Sufiyan Muqeem then had Mairu trapped in front for 58, Daryl Mitchell and Tim Seifert keeping things ticking along, combining for 61 until Naseem Shah broke the shackles, sending Seifert back to the sheds for 26.
Just as Mitchell was approaching fifty, he knicked behind for 43, Muhammad Abbas making just eleven as skipper Michael Bracewell began to plunder Pakistan.
His forty-ball stay included six sixes and one four before he held out on the final ball of the innings.
Join us soon for Pakistan's reply.
