New Zealand Defeats Pakistan by 78 Runs in Tri-Nation ODI Series Opener at Gaddafi Stadium

Desk

New Zealand triumphed over Pakistan by 78 runs in the opening match of the tri-nation ODI series at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on Saturday. Chasing a challenging 331-run target, Pakistan could only manage 254 runs before being bowled out in 47.5 overs, despite a strong half-century from Fakhar Zaman.

Pakistan started their run chase confidently, with Fakhar and Babar Azam putting together a quick 52-run partnership. Fakhar was the aggressor, while Babar played cautiously before falling to Michael Bracewell for 10 off 23 balls. Fakhar then teamed up with Kamran Ghulam, contributing 51 runs for the second wicket, though Ghulam could only muster 18 off 32 balls. Fakhar’s strong innings ended in the 24th over when he was dismissed for 84 off 69 balls, hitting seven fours and four sixes.

After Fakhar’s departure, vice-captain Salman Ali Agha continued the chase, forming partnerships with Tayyab Tahir (30) and Khushdil Shah (15). However, his 51-ball 40 wasn’t enough, and Pakistan’s chase faltered. Abrar Ahmed added some resistance with a quick-fire 25 off 15 balls, but it was too little too late. Mitchell Santner and Matt Henry took three wickets each, while Bracewell claimed two.

Earlier, New Zealand posted a competitive 330/6 in 50 overs, thanks to contributions from Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, and Glenn Phillips. After an early setback, where Will Young was dismissed for just four runs, Williamson (58 off 89) and Mitchell (81 off 84) steadied the innings, adding 95 runs for the third wicket. Despite New Zealand being reduced to 135/4, Phillips played a game-changing knock of 106* off 74 balls, including six fours and seven sixes, leading New Zealand past the 300-run mark.

For Pakistan, Shaheen Shah Afridi was the standout bowler, picking up three wickets, while Abrar Ahmed took two. Despite a valiant effort, Pakistan fell short in their chase.

Match Summary: