In a bizarre incident, the floodlights at the Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui, the venue for the third ODI between New Zealand and Pakistan, failed right before fast bowler Jacob Duffy was about to release the ball.
During the 39th over of Pakistan's chase (265 in 42 overs), with the visitors struggling at 218-8, their last recognised batter Tayyab Tahir (33*) had just defended Duffy's third delivery after hitting a four earlier in the over.
As Tahir took guard for the fourth ball, the floodlights suddenly failed - just as Duffy unleashed a vicious bumper. Miraculously, Tahir avoided injury despite the complete darkness.
The delay seemed to have caused a lapse of concentration for Tahir, as he was dismissed by Duffy right after the lights returned.
Pakistan were bowled out for 221 in 40 overs, completing New Zealand's 3-0 series clean sweep. Fast bowler Ben Sears starred with figures of 5-34 - his second consecutive five-wicket haul - joining an elite list of bowlers that includes Waqar Younis and Mitchell Starc.
The victory was set up by New Zealand's batters after a rain-delayed start reduced the match to 42 overs per side. Opener Rhys Mariu (58) and captain Michael Bracewell (59) anchored the innings with half-centuries, while Daryl Mitchell - who became the fastest New Zealander to reach 2,000 ODI runs - added a crucial 43 off 53 balls.
Watch Bay Oval lights go off as Duffy was about to release the ball
Some Horrifying Incident 😱 at PAK vs NZ 3rd ODI
— Shikhar Das (@Astro__Sunita) April 5, 2025
Just as the bowler was about to bowl, all the lights suddenly went off. This could have turned disastrous! 🧐😡
WHAT IF the ball Hit The Batsman, But luckily The Batsman move back after delivery 💯🤗 pic.twitter.com/9p22YnvWNL
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