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New Zealand has clinched the three-match ODI series against Pakistan in United Arab Emirates following a thrilling victory in the third and the final match of the series in Abu Dhabi. New Zealand won the last ODI by only 7 runs. Chasing a target of 212, Pakistan was struggling after losing 9 wickets at 101. However, a gallant innings from 17 year-old Mohammad Aamer almost took the match away from New Zealand’s grip.

The youngster guided Pakistan to 204, sharing 103 runs for the 10^th wicket along with Saeed Ajmal. However, his brave effort came to an end when Ajmal got out as the last Pakistani batsmen with 5 balls remaining in hand. Aamer played a tremendous innings of 73 not out off 81 balls, hitting 7 boundaries and 3 over-boundaries. Ajmal also supported him very well scoring 33 runs off 44 balls. Jacob Oram picked up 3 wickets, while Vettori got 2 wickets for New Zealand.

Earlier, Daniel Vettori won the toss and decided to bat first. Previous match’s centurion Brendon McCullum played another match-winning innings of 76 off just 78 balls. Ross Taylor scored 44, while 21 runs came from opener Redmond. It was off spinner Saeed Ajmal who helped Pakistan restrict the Kiwis to 211 picking up all the wickets with 21 balls left in their innings. Ajmal bagged 4 wickets for 33, while Aamer got 2 wickets. Aamer’s all rounder performance earned him the man of the match award, despite Pakistan’s defeat.

By the way, did you know that earlier today, ICC World Cup Cricket 2011 Schedule was announced.

Related article:

NZ Herald