Nida Dar delivered a calm, authoritative performance in the third ODI against New Zealand Women, scoring an unbeaten 57 to guide Pakistan Women to a successful chase of 233 and a four-wicket victory. Her innings was the defining factor in Pakistan avoiding a series whitewash, showcasing leadership, composure, and a clear understanding of the match situation.
Chasing 233 required discipline rather than desperation, and Pakistan’s approach reflected that from the outset. The early overs were about stability—seeing off the new ball, rotating strike, and preventing pressure from building. While the top order laid a workable platform, the chase was far from straightforward. New Zealand’s bowlers maintained control through the middle overs, using tight lines and subtle variations to slow the scoring rate and keep wickets in play.
As wickets fell at intervals, the equation demanded a batter who could absorb pressure and pace the chase intelligently. Nida Dar stepped into that role with authority. Her arrival brought clarity to Pakistan’s innings. Rather than forcing the tempo, she focused on restoring balance—finding singles, backing her partner, and picking off boundaries only when the risk was justified.
Dar’s unbeaten 57 was a study in situational batting. She read the field well, used soft hands to manipulate gaps, and kept the required run rate within reach without exposing herself or her partners. Against pace, she relied on timing and placement rather than power. Against spin, her footwork and shot selection ensured she stayed in control, denying New Zealand the chance to build pressure through dot balls.
The turning point of the chase came during the final third, when the target dropped below 80. With wickets still in hand, Dar subtly increased the tempo. Without changing her method drastically, she began to access boundaries more frequently—punishing anything short or overpitched and ensuring Pakistan didn’t leave themselves too much to do at the end.
What stood out was her composure under pressure. New Zealand attempted to squeeze the game with attacking fields and bowling changes, but Dar remained unflustered. She communicated clearly with her partners, ensured strike rotation remained sharp, and took responsibility for closing the chase. There was no rush, no panic—just control.
As the target narrowed, Pakistan’s confidence grew. Dar’s presence at the crease removed uncertainty, allowing others to play their natural game. When the winning runs were scored, Pakistan crossed the line with four wickets in hand, a margin that reflected how effectively the chase had been managed despite earlier pressure.
This innings was significant beyond the result. For Pakistan Women, it represented progress—an ability to chase a competitive total against a quality side through planning and execution rather than reliance on moments of luck. For Nida Dar, it reaffirmed her role as a leader and finisher, capable of guiding the team through high-pressure scenarios.
For New Zealand Women, the defeat did little to dent their series success, but Dar’s innings exposed the challenge of defending moderate totals when a set batter bats deep. Despite disciplined bowling spells, they were unable to dislodge her once she settled.
In the end, Nida Dar’s unbeaten 57 was not about flair or dominance—it was about control. She anchored the chase, dictated the tempo, and ensured Pakistan finished the series with belief restored. It was a captain’s knock in all but name, and a reminder that well-paced innings still decide one-day cricket.
12BET Shortlisted for Sportsbook Operator of the Year at SBC Awards 2025