The New Zealand women's cricket team have failed to complete a clean sweep of their one day cricket series against Pakistan in Sharjah, losing the third and final game by five wickets.
White Ferns captain Suzie Bater and legspinner Amelia Kerr discuss field settings. Photo: Photosport
In what was Pakistan's first win over New Zealand in the 50-over format in 13 attempts, the White Ferns went into the match with an unassailable 2-0 series lead.
However, after slumping to 28-3 early on, they were only able to post 155 batting first.
Pakistan chased down the target for the loss of only five wickets, with just over an over to spare.
Northern Spirit batswoman Sam Curtis was the shining light for the visitors, making a fighting 50.
In her first game of the tour, 32-year-old Curtis came to the wicket at 50-4 and struck five boundaries to notch her second ODI half-century off 72 deliveries.
Wicket-keeper Katey Martin (15) and Auckland's Maddy Green (26) got starts but couldn't capitalise.
Experienced Pakistan spinner Sana Mir was the chief destroyer for her side, returning superb figures of 4-25.
If the White Ferns were to defend the target they would need early wickets, but they didn't come.
A 40-run opening stand was followed by two patient partnerships to ease the host's nerves.
Canterbury swing-bowler Thamsyn Newton (1-26) impressed in her ten overs, while spinners Anna Peterson (2-25), Leigh Kasperek (0-28) and Kerr (1-28) were a challenge on the turning pitch.
Despite some late wickets, Pakistan were able to reach the total thanks to the cool heads of captain Bismah Maroof (36*) and Mir (12*), who struck the winning runs with seven balls remaining.
The sides will reconvene at the same venue on Wednesday, when they begin a four-game T20 series.
New Zealand's Sophie Devine was named player of the one-day series.
