WATCH: Former Pakistan greats erupt in joy as Pakistan qualifies for the T20 World Cup 2022 Final

Pakistan defeated New Zealand in an all-important semi-final match of the ICC T20 World Cup 2022, advancing to the event’s finals. The Men in Green easily defeated the Kiwis by seven wickets, securing their place in the championship match on Sunday, November 13th. The toss was won by New Zealand, who chose to bat first. In the first over, Shaheen Shah Afridi struck, finding Finn Allen (4 off 3) plumb in front of the stumps. While Devon Conway and Kane Williamson attempted to rebuild the innings, Shadab Khan’s excellent fielding caught Conway (21 off 20) short of his ground and he was runout in the final delivery of the powerplay. Glenn Phillips (6 off 8) couldn’t maintain the momentum he had in the earlier stages, and New Zealand were reduced to 3/49 after 8 overs.

Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell’s 68-run partnership brought the team total to 117. Then, in the 17th over, Shaheen Shah Afridi came back into the attack and broke the partnership by dismissing Williamson (46 off 42). Mitchell (53* off 35) stood tall at one end, scoring a solid half-century to assist the side past the 150-run mark alongside Jimmy Neesham (16* off 12). Pakistan got off to a flying start. In the Powerplay, the opening duo blasted the bowlers all over the park, stealing the game from the Black Caps. Babar and Rizwan, who had struggled to live up to expectations during the tournament, put together a 105-run partnership.

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Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis dance in joy

Pakistan icons Wasim Akram, Shoaib Malik, Misbah-ul-Haq, and Waqar Younis, who serve on the A Sports panel, were overcome by Pakistan’s vital victory over the Kiwis. Following their qualification to the finals, the Pakistan greats were seen dancing in a video uploaded on social media.