ODI Tri-Series: Glenn Phillips’ blazing maiden century off 74 balls powers New Zealand to 78-run win over Pakistan

Glenn Phillips delivered a match-winning performance, smashing an unbeaten century to lead New Zealand to a commanding 78-run victory over Pakistan in the opening match of the ODI Tri-Series at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. His blistering 106* off just 74 balls, laced with six fours and seven sixes, powered the Kiwis to a formidable total of 330/6. The all-rounder’s fireworks in the death overs ensured New Zealand finished on a high, leaving Pakistan with a challenging chase.

Earlier, after winning the toss and opting to bat, New Zealand’s top order struggled as openers Will Young (4 off 4) and Rachin Ravindra (25 off 19) departed early. However, the innings was revived through a crucial 95-run stand between Kane Williamson (58 off 89) and Daryl Mitchell (81 off 84), who steadied the ship with composed batting. Their efforts laid a strong foundation before Phillips unleashed his attacking prowess, taking the Pakistani bowlers to task in the latter half of the innings. Mitchell Santner (8* off 5) provided support in the final overs as New Zealand reached an imposing total.

Pakistan’s bowling unit had moments of brilliance, with Shaheen Afridi leading the attack, claiming three wickets. Abrar Ahmed chipped in with two wickets, conceding just 41 runs in his 10-over spell. However, they struggled to contain Phillips, whose aggressive approach put the visitors firmly in control.

Chasing 331, Pakistan showed promise early on, thanks to an explosive start from Fakhar Zaman, who played a brilliant knock of 84 off 69 balls, including seven fours and four sixes. Despite his efforts, the hosts failed to build momentum as the middle order faltered. Salman Agha contributed 40 off 51 before falling to Michael Bracewell, while Babar Azam (10 off 23) and Mohammad Rizwan (3 off 11) failed to make an impact, raising concerns about Pakistan’s batting depth ahead of the 2025 Champions Trophy.

New Zealand’s bowling attack maintained relentless pressure, with Matt Henry and Mitchell Santner both claiming three wickets each. Bracewell added two wickets to his tally, while Phillips capped off his all-round display with a wicket in his three-over spell. Pakistan were eventually bowled out for 252 in the 48th over, handing New Zealand a convincing win and securing two points at the top of the Tri-Series standings with a net run rate of +1.560.

For his outstanding batting performance, Glenn Phillips was named ‘Player of the Match,’ further cementing his role as a key asset for New Zealand in white-ball cricket.