Mark Chapman’s Century Leads New Zealand to Big 73 Runs Win Over Pakistan: Mark Chapman scored a brilliant century, and Nathan Smith took four wickets as New Zealand defeated Pakistan by 73 runs in the first ODI in Napier on Saturday.
Chapman’s Masterclass against Pakistan in 1st ODI
Chapman played a crucial knock, rescuing New Zealand after a poor start. The team was struggling at 50-3 after being invited to bat.
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Chapman hit a career-best 132 to help New Zealand post a strong total of 344-9 at McLean Park.
The left-hander formed a massive 199-run partnership with Daryl Mitchell, who scored 76 off 84 balls. They helped New Zealand to be in a strong position.
“Was tricky early on (conditions), we probably aimed at something lower then this, but we then kicked on and got to a good total. It was really important (on the partnership with Daryl Mitchell), we just absorbed the pressure and then got into a position to put the pressure back on them. We rode our luck, got a platform and set things up for debutant Abbas to put the icing on the cake, it was a solid innings from him”, Mark Chapman said in the post match presentation.
Pakistan started well in their chase but collapsed later, getting bowled out for 271 in the 45th over.
At one stage, Pakistan looked in control at 249-3, needing just 96 runs from more than 11 overs. However, Smith (4-60) led New Zealand’s comeback, taking key wickets. Pakistan lost their last seven wickets for just 22 runs.
Pakistan’s Collapse early in 1st ODI against New Zealand
Babar Azam, who returned to the team, top-scored with 78 off 83 balls. But his dismissal triggered Pakistan’s downfall.
Salman Agha fought hard with 58 off 48 balls, but Pakistan’s lower order crumbled. Loose shots and poor decisions cost them the match.
Abbas Breaks Record on Debut Match
All-rounder Muhammad Abbas had a dream debut. He smashed 52 and set a world record for the fastest half-century by a debutant, reaching 50 in just 24 balls.
Pakistan’s bowlers had some success early. Left-arm pacer Akif Javed impressed with 2-55 on debut. But part-time seamer Irfan Khan finished with the best figures, taking 3-51 in five expensive overs.
Series Update of Pakistan Tour of New Zealand 2025
Both teams made several changes from the T20 series, which New Zealand won 4-1. The second ODI of the series will be played in Hamilton on Wednesday.
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