New Zealand beat Pakistan in third Test to share series

Trent Boult (centre) claimed three crucial top-order wickets

New Zealand beat Pakistan by an innings and 80 runs in the third Test at Sharjah to share the series 1-1.

After posting their highest ever innings total of 690 to establish a 339-run first-innings lead, the Black Caps dismissed Pakistan for 259 to wrap up victory inside four days.

Spinner Mark Craig took 10 wickets in the match, as well as hitting 65, and was named man of the match.

Pakistan won the first Test at Abu Dhabi by 248 runs.

The series-squaring victory concludes a highly successful year in Test cricket for New Zealand, who have also claimed series wins at home to India and away in the West Indies.

But the result was overshadowed by the death of Australia batsman Phillip Hughes, which caused the second day of the Test to be postponed.

"It was definitely really tough circumstances under which to play the Test," said New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum, whose superb innings of 202 underpinned the victory.

"Our thoughts were elsewhere, but I'm proud of the guys for sticking together."

Pakistan opener Mohammad Hafeez, who made 197 in the first innings, was named man of the series.