Ross Taylor completed his 12th test century before New Zealand set Pakistan a victory target of 261 on the final day of the second match in Dubai today. The visitors, trailing 1-0 in the three-match series, declared their second innings on 250 for nine wickets in the first session for an overall lead of 260, giving Pakistan 72 overs to chase down the target.
The hosts suffered an early jolt in their chase when Tim Southee removed opener Taufeeq Umar in his first over, the second of the innings.
Shan Masson (11) and Azhar Ali (13) weathered some pressure but were holding firm as Pakistan reached 32 for one at lunch.
Taylor had added a crucial 60 for the seventh wicket with Mark Craig (34).
Southee whacked 20 in just five balls, with three consecutive sixes off left-arm spinner Zulfiqar Babar (4-96) to boost New Zealand's total.