Cricket Highlights, March 29: Pakistan tour of New Zealand (1st ODI) – NZ vs PAK

NZ vs PAK (1st ODI) – Highlights

NZ kicked off their home ODI series against PAK in dominant fashion, securing a commanding 73-run win at Napier. The hosts put up an impressive batting display, thanks to Mark Chapman’s scintillating century, which laid the foundation for a match-winning total. Pakistan fought hard but ultimately fell short in the chase, unable to overcome New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack.

NZ’s innings began on a shaky note as Will Young fell early to Naseem Shah, followed by the dismissals of Nick Kelly and Henry Nicholls within the first 13 overs. At 50 for 3, Pakistan seemed to have the upper hand. However, Mark Chapman and Daryl Mitchell turned the tide with a stunning 199-run partnership.

Chapman was in sublime touch, pacing his innings to perfection. The left-hander struck 13 boundaries and six sixes en route to a superb 132 off 111 balls, mixing aggression with composure. Daryl Mitchell provided solid support, contributing a well-crafted 76 off 84 balls, ensuring that New Zealand capitalized on the platform.

In the final overs, Muhammad Abbas injected further momentum with a blistering 52 off just 26 deliveries, taking the Kiwis past the 340-run mark. His fearless strokeplay saw him clear the ropes thrice while also finding the boundary consistently. Despite a late flurry of wickets, New Zealand finished at a commanding 344 for 9 in their allotted 50 overs.

PAK bowlers had moments of brilliance, particularly Haris Rauf, who was the most economical with figures of 2 for 38 in his 10 overs. Irfan Khan was expensive but picked up three crucial wickets, while Akif Javed chipped in with two. However, their collective inability to contain runs, particularly in the latter half of the innings, proved costly.

Chasing 345 was always going to be a daunting task, and Pakistan started positively with openers Abdullah Shafique and Usman Khan putting up a brisk 83-run stand. Usman was the aggressor, smashing 39 off 33 balls before falling to Nathan Smith. Abdullah Shafique soon followed, leaving Pakistan at 88 for 2.

Babar Azam, Pakistan’s batting mainstay, played a captain’s knock, keeping his side in the hunt with a fluent 78 off 83 balls. His innings was filled with elegant strokes, including five boundaries and three sixes, as he formed a crucial partnership with Mohammad Rizwan. However, just as Pakistan was gaining momentum, Rizwan departed for 30, triggering a collapse.

Salman Agha provided some late hope with a valiant 58 off 48 balls, but wickets tumbled around him. Tayyab Tahir’s unfortunate run-out and a golden duck for Irfan Khan signaled Pakistan’s downfall. The lower order crumbled under pressure, with Nathan Smith wreaking havoc, picking up 4 wickets for 60 runs. The visitors were eventually bowled out for 271 in 44.1 overs.

Also read: Cricket Highlights, March 21: Pakistan tour of New Zealand 2025 (3rd T20I) – NZ vs PAK

New Zealand vs. Pakistan Scoreboard

New Zealand – 344/9 (50)

Pakistan – 271 (44.1/50)

Result – New Zealand won by 73 runs

Player of the Match – Mark Chapman

NZ vs PAK Playing Eleven

Disclaimer: This match highlight is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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