Fine bowling spells by pacer Mark Wood and spinner Adil Rashid combined with some ferocious hitting by openers Phil Salt and Jos Buttler helped England secure a series victory after a seven-wicket win over Pakistan in the fourth and final T20I at London on Thursday night.
With this win, England has taken the four-match series 2-0. Two matches were called off due to rain and only second and fourth T20Is were played.
Electing to field first, England bowlers had to witness some fine hitting from the opening duo of skipper Babar Azam and Mohammed Rizwan, who teamed up after a long while. Pakistan reached the 50-run mark in just 5.3 overs.
However, at the last ball of the powerplay, this partnership met its end. Skipper Babar was caught by Rashid at short third man on a delivery by Jofra Archer for 36 in 22 balls, with five fours and a six. Pakistan was 59/1 in six overs.
Following that, England spinners Rashid and Moeen Ali were all over Pakistani batting, taking some quick wickets. Pakistan sank to 86/5 in 10.2 overs. Rashid showcased his class with the ball, unleashing a spin web Pakistan could not get out of, taking wickets of Rizwan (23 in 16 balls, with three fours) and Shadab Khan (0).
Wicketkeeper-batter Azam Khan was also removed for a duck to a scorching bouncer from Mark Wood, as the ball hit his glove and went into the hands of Buttler.
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