Yusuf Pathan’s efficient batting skills proposed a difficult target for Newzealand. He saved Indian side from falling after a bad start by initial batsmen. The kiwis couldn’t reach target of 305 runs set by Indian side.

India was asked to bat first. The start of innings was not very hopeful. None of the starting batsmen could secure much runs for India. Robin Uthappa and Swapnil Asnodkar fell in the first two overs. Skipper Badrinath, Dinesh Karthick and Suresh Raina couldn’t secure commendable runs for India. Suresh Raina claimed four wickets.

Arrival of Yusuf gave strength to the falling score of Indian team. He played the game with good planning. He started with singles in the beginning of his innings. Soon he started striking every loose ball for a four or a sixer. He nine sixers helped India reaching target of 305.

Yusuf Pathan walked in with his side at 66 for 5. Yusuf added 105 runs for the sixth wicket with Rohit Sharma in 22.1 overs. He further added 59 runs for the seventh wicket with his brother Irfan Pathan (31, 41 balls) in 9.5 overs, and with Piyush Chawla he added 75 runs for the eighth wicket in just six overs.

Yusuf’148 off 127 balls with the support of Rohit Sharma and brother Irfan ensured victory of India. Skillful batting of Yusuf helped India in putting a difficult target before New Zealand.