New Zealand clinched a 78-run victory over Pakistan in the first ODI of the tri-series at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, on February 8, 2025. The match showcased an outstanding performance by Glenn Phillips, who not only scored his maiden ODI century (106)* but also contributed with the ball to dismantle Pakistan’s chase
New Zealand’s Dominant Batting Display
Batting first, New Zealand put up an impressive 330/6 in 50 overs. The innings was anchored by *Glenn Phillips (106), Daryl Mitchell (81), and Kane Williamson (58)**. A crucial late assault saw Pakistan conceding 84 runs in the last 5 overs, with Shaheen Afridi’s 49th over going for 25 runs, a turning point in the match
Shaheen Shah Afridi was the pick of the bowlers for Pakistan, grabbing 3 wickets for 88 runs, while Abrar Ahmed took 2/41
Pakistan’s Faltering Chase
Chasing 331, Pakistan struggled from the start as Babar Azam fell for just 10 runs, caught by Glenn Phillips off Michael Bracewell. Fakhar Zaman (84 off 69 balls) provided hope with an aggressive innings, but his dismissal triggered a collapse. Salman Agha (40) and Tayyab Tahir (30) tried to stabilize the innings, but the mounting required run rate proved too much
Mitchell Santner (3/24) and Matt Henry (3/50) led New Zealand’s bowling attack, restricting Pakistan to 252 all out in 47.5 overs
Key Turning Points & Takeaways
- Glenn Phillips’ All-Round Brilliance – His century and a crucial wicket made him the standout performer.
- Late Overs Assault – Pakistan’s bowling crumbled in the last five overs, allowing New Zealand to post a formidable total.
- Pakistan’s Top-Order Woes – Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan’s early dismissals exposed Pakistan’s vulnerability.
- Injuries – Rachin Ravindra suffered a head injury while fielding, and Haris Rauf picked up a side strain, missing the crucial death overs
What’s Next?
Pakistan will need to rethink their middle-order approach and improve their death bowling in the upcoming matches. Meanwhile, New Zealand will aim to continue their momentum in the tri-series as they gear up for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025
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