Glenn Phillips’ Century Powers New Zealand to 78-Run Victory Over Pakistan in Tri-Nation ODI Series Opener

LAHORE: Glenn Phillips’ explosive century and Mitchell Santner’s three-wicket haul guided New Zealand to a commanding 78-run win over Pakistan in the first match of the tri-nation ODI series at Gaddafi Stadium on Saturday. Chasing a challenging target of 331, Pakistan were bowled out for 254 in 47.5 overs despite Fakhar Zaman’s valiant 84-run knock.

Pakistan’s Chase Falls Short Despite Fakhar’s Heroics

Pakistan’s innings began promisingly as Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam stitched together a 52-run opening partnership. Fakhar was the aggressor, while Babar struggled to find rhythm, scoring just 10 off 23 balls before falling to Michael Bracewell in the powerplay. Fakhar then partnered with Kamran Ghulam (18 off 32) for a 51-run stand, but wickets continued to tumble at regular intervals.

Fakhar’s defiant 84 off 69 balls, including seven fours and four sixes, kept Pakistan’s hopes alive. However, his dismissal in the 24th over left the hosts struggling at 137/4. Vice-captain Salman Ali Agha fought hard with a 51-ball 40, but Pakistan’s middle order failed to build momentum. Abrar Ahmed’s late cameo of 25* off 15 balls provided some resistance, but it wasn’t enough to prevent a comprehensive defeat.

For New Zealand, Mitchell Santner (3/41) and Matt Henry (3/52) were the standout bowlers, while Bracewell chipped in with two crucial wickets.

New Zealand’s Dominant Batting Display

Earlier, New Zealand posted a formidable 330/6 after opting to bat first. Despite losing Will Young (4) early to Shaheen Shah Afridi, Kane Williamson (58 off 89) and Daryl Mitchell (81 off 84) steadied the innings with a 95-run partnership for the third wicket. Mitchell’s aggressive knock, featuring four sixes, laid the foundation for a big total.

Glenn Phillips then stole the show with a breathtaking unbeaten 106 off 74 balls, including six fours and seven sixes. His 65-run stand with Mitchell and a 54-run partnership with Michael Bracewell (31 off 23) propelled New Zealand past the 300-run mark. Shaheen Shah Afridi (3/63) and Abrar Ahmed (2/65) were the pick of Pakistan’s bowlers.

Key Takeaways

• Glenn Phillips’ 106* off 74 balls was the highlight of New Zealand’s innings.
• Fakhar Zaman’s 84 off 69 was the lone bright spot in Pakistan’s chase.
• Mitchell Santner’s 3/41 and Matt Henry’s 3/52 dismantled Pakistan’s batting lineup.
• New Zealand’s strong all-round performance sets the tone for the tri-nation series.

The second match of the series will see Pakistan take on South Africa as they look to bounce back from this defeat. New Zealand, meanwhile, will aim to maintain their winning momentum.