Bilal Asif completed a five-wicket haul as Pakistan closed out New Zealand’s first innings for 274 runs in the deciding Test at Abu Dhabi.

BJ Watling remained unbeaten on a 250-ball 77 as the Kiwis were bowled out shortly before lunch on day two of the Abu Dhabi Test. In reply, Pakistan lost Mohammad Hafeez for a duck before lunch was taken with Trent Boult giving New Zealand the lightening start.

Resuming from their overnight score of 227-7 on Tuesday, Watling and New Zealand debutant Will Somerville continued to frustrate the Pakistan bowlers with a stubborn stand which was ultimately broken by Asif.

The Pakistan off-spinner ended Somerville’s 99-ball stay at the crease by beating his defence with some sharp turn.  The 33-year-old then got the better of Ajaz Patel to register his fourth wicket of the innings.

Watling was left stranded on 77 after a marathon knock as Asif dislodged Boult’s stumps to complete his second five-for in Test cricket.

On day one, New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson scored a fluent 89 but it was Pakistan who had dominated proceedings with Yasir Shah picking up three wickets.

Both teams are locked at 1-1 in the three-match series with New Zealand winning the opener by four runs while Pakistan won the Dubai Test by an innings margin.