PAK vs NZ: New Zealand thrash Pakistan by 78 runs in Tri-Series opener

New Zealand kicked off their ODI Tri-Series campaign with a commanding 78-run victory over Pakistan at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Saturday. A stellar performance from Glenn Phillips, both with the bat and the ball, propelled the Kiwis to the top of the standings with two points and a net run rate of +1.560.

Winning the toss, New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner opted to bat first, a decision that paid off as his team posted a formidable total despite early setbacks. Openers Will Young and Rachin Ravindra had a brief stay at the crease, contributing just 4 and 25 runs, respectively. However, the middle order steadied the innings, with Kane Williamson scoring a crucial 58 off 89 balls, laced with seven fours. He was well-supported by Daryl Mitchell, who played a blistering knock of 81 off 84 deliveries, hitting two fours and four sixes. Their 95-run partnership was instrumental in stabilizing the innings.

After the duo’s departure, Glenn Phillips took charge and delivered a sensational unbeaten century, smashing 106 off just 74 balls, including six fours and seven towering sixes. His explosive knock in the latter stages, alongside Mitchell Santner, who remained not out on 8, propelled New Zealand to a competitive total of 330/6 in 50 overs.

Pakistan’s bowling attack was led by Shaheen Afridi, who picked up three wickets, while Abrar Ahmed provided crucial support with a disciplined 10-over spell, taking two wickets for 41 runs.

Chasing 331, Pakistan’s innings started on a positive note, with opener Fakhar Zaman leading the charge. He played an aggressive knock, scoring 84 off 69 balls, striking seven fours and four sixes. However, the momentum quickly shifted in New Zealand’s favor as the middle order struggled against the Kiwi bowlers. Salman Agha showed resistance with a 40-run innings off 51 balls before falling to Michael Bracewell.

Pakistan’s batting lineup failed to provide the necessary support, with key players Babar Azam (10 off 23) and Mohammad Rizwan (3 off 11) falling cheaply. With the Champions Trophy 2025 approaching, Pakistan will need to reassess their batting approach after another underwhelming performance.

New Zealand’s bowling attack was led by Matt Henry and Mitchell Santner, both claiming three wickets each. Michael Bracewell picked up two wickets, while Phillips contributed with a wicket in his three-over spell. Their collective effort dismantled Pakistan’s lineup, bundling them out for 252 in the 48th over.

For his match-winning century and all-round contribution, Glenn Phillips was named Player of the Match.

Brief score:

• New Zealand 330/6 (Glenn Phillips 106*, Daryl Mitchell 81, Kane Williamson 58; Shaheen Afridi 3/88)
• Pakistan 252 (Fakhar Zaman 84, Salman Agha 40, Tayyab Tahir 30; Mitchell Santner 3/41).