LAHORE – New Zealand secured a commanding 78-run victory over Pakistan in the opening match of the tri-nation ODI series.
Fakhar Zaman, making his comeback, was Pakistan’s top scorer with 84 runs, followed by Salman Agha’s 40. However, the Black Caps’ bowling attack, led by Matt Henry and Mitchell Santner, who claimed three wickets each, restricted Pakistan’s chase.
Earlier, a blistering knock from Glenn Phillips and a solid innings from Daryl Mitchell powered New Zealand to a formidable total of 331. The Black Caps were 304/6 by the penultimate over, recovering well after losing Will Young in the first over. A steady partnership between Daryl Mitchell and Kane Williamson helped them regain momentum.
Winning the toss, New Zealand elected to bat first at the revamped Gaddafi Stadium. Captain Mitchell Santner expressed confidence in posting a competitive total, which the team successfully achieved.
Tournament Overview
The tri-series, featuring Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa, runs from February 8-14, with matches set to take place at the newly constructed Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore and the National Bank Stadium in Karachi.
Pakistan will next face South Africa on February 12 in Karachi, while New Zealand will take on South Africa on February 10. The final will be played between the top two teams on February 14 at 2 PM PST.
This series serves as crucial preparation for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, scheduled to begin in Karachi on February 19, with Pakistan set to face New Zealand in the tournament opener.
Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan, eyeing his fourth consecutive ODI series win, emphasized the importance of home crowd support and the team’s preparations ahead of the ICC event. Meanwhile, New Zealand’s Mitchell Santner highlighted their enthusiasm following a productive training session in Lahore.
