New Zealand 303 for 8 (McCullum 131, Guptill 62) beat Pakistan 239 (Butt 59, Styris 3-23) by 64 runs.
Brendon McCullum, it is fair to say, hasn't had the best year, or in fact the best time of it since he launched the IPL into orbit two years ago. Expectation has generally overtaken him, he has been dropped as vice-captain and questions about his suitability to opening have been asked. But an immaculately constructed 131, McCullum's second century in 162 ODIs, led New Zealand to 303 for 8 at the Sheikh Zayed stadium in Abu Dhabi, and paved the way for them to level the three match series at 1-1.
There were periods of acceleration, uncertainty and consolidation in New Zealand's innings and McCullum stood firm through it all, falling only in the 47th over, the last of the batting Powerplay. Pakistan's chase needed a similar effort but none was forthcoming. Their seemed to have a plan: the top order batted cautiously, preserved wickets and steadily built a platform for the middle and lower order to fire from. The launch-pad was there - they reached 124 for 1 - but the asking-rate had risen to over seven an over, heaping pressure on the likes of Shahid Afridi. And when the time came for Pakistan's thrust, Scott Styris nipped out three crucial wickets in two overs. The plan had failed and the exodus of fans from the venue began as early as the 28th over.
source:cricinfo
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