Pakistan beat New Zealand in tri-series final to send T20 World Cup warning

All-rounder Mohammad Nawaz helped Pakistan to a five-wicket victory over New Zealand on Friday to win the tri-series Twenty20 final in Christchurch with three balls to spare.

It was a good sign for Pakistan going into the World Cup in Australia, with an opener against arch-rivals India on 23 October.

After the hosts finished on 163-7 at Hagley Oval, spinner Michael Bracewell checked Pakistan's early momentum in the tourists' reply, before Nawaz stepped up with his decisive 38 off 22 balls.

Haider Ali also made a useful 31 off 15 balls.

Having also steered Pakistan out of trouble in Thursday's dead-rubber win over Bangladesh, Nawaz produced another stellar innings before Iftikhar Ahmed sealed victory with a six in the final over.

Pakistan cross the finish line comfortably to win the Tri-series final at Christchurch ??#NZvPAK | ?? Scorecard: https://t.co/bAWntNkXEj pic.twitter.com/aSmkgir84p

"I just backed myself when I came on yesterday and today, all the preparation in the nets meant I had a clear mind," said man-of-the-match Nawaz.

"I have been batting in the middle order in club cricket, which helps a lot, and I was very happy to fulfil the team's expectations in me."

The Black Caps - World Cup finalists last year - started well with captain Kane Williamson the top-scorer with a masterful display of stroke play to chalk up 59 off 38 balls.

The hosts flew out of the traps with Finn Allen hitting three fours before he was caught by Naseem Shah for 12 off six balls.

Williamson came in to settle nerves with his first half-century in any format in 2022 after struggling for form following an elbow injury.

"It was a great game, Pakistan are a strong side and all credit to the way they turned the game's momentum," said Williamson.

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