• Matt Henry and Ajaz Patel partnership of 104-run helped NZ.
• stand was fourth best for a tenth-wicket pair in Test cricket.
• Pakistan were hoping to finish their innings for under 350.

PAK vs NZ: Matt Henry and Ajaz Patel’s 104-run partnership helped New Zealand score more runs than expected. After four sessions of the second Test in Karachi, this partnership placed New Zealand ahead. Pakistan, who hoped to dismiss New Zealand for under 350, is already 100 runs behind.

Henry and Patel’s century stand was the fourth best ever for a tenth-wicket pair in Test cricket. Ajaz tried to sweep a googly from Abrar Ahmed, but the ball hit the top of his bat and was caught by slip. Ajaz scored 35, his highest Test score, but Henry was the more aggressive batsman, hitting eight fours and two sixes in his 81-ball 68.

When New Zealand lost their ninth wicket at 345, the two factors collided. Abrar was the first batsman Henry faced, and he responded with a four through midwicket. Henry then proceeded to smash Hasan Ali for four, four, and six off successive deliveries.

When Naseem Shah returned to the field, Henry strode down the ground and into the V before hitting a six over deep midwicket. Soon after, he slammed Agha Salman through the off side for his sixth boundary and slogged Abrar for his fifth four.

Ajaz was more reserved, only sometimes letting his arms go during his 78-ball stint. He looked confident, hitting three fours, even against the short-pitched bowling with which Pakistan tried to challenge him but ultimately failed.

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