In a thrilling start to the Tri-Nation Series, New Zealand outclassed Pakistan by 78 runs at the newly constructed Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Saturday. Opting to bat first, the Kiwis posted a mammoth total of 330 for six in their 50 overs, thanks to a sensational century by Glenn Phillips and solid contributions from Daryl Mitchell and Kane Williamson. Pakistan, despite a valiant effort, fell short, managing only 252 runs in 47.5 overs.
Glenn Phillips, batting at number six, was the star of the match, scoring an unbeaten 106 off just 74 balls. His innings included six fours and seven sixes, showcasing his ability to dominate the bowlers in the death overs. Phillips’ aggressive approach ensured New Zealand crossed the 300-run mark, setting a challenging target for Pakistan.
Daryl Mitchell played a crucial role, scoring 81 off 84 balls, including two fours and four sixes. His partnership with Phillips was instrumental in accelerating the run rate. Captain Kane Williamson also contributed with a composed 58 off 89 balls, anchoring the innings during the middle overs.
Shaheen Shah Afridi, Pakistan’s premier fast bowler, took three wickets but conceded 88 runs in his 10 overs. While his wickets provided some breakthroughs, his economy rate reflected the pressure exerted by the Kiwi batters. Abrar Ahmed picked up two wickets, but the rest of the bowling attack failed to contain New Zealand’s aggressive batting.
Pakistan suffered a setback when Haris Rauf left the field due to a side strain during his seventh over. Rauf had taken one wicket for 23 runs before his injury, and his absence weakened Pakistan’s bowling attack in the latter stages of the innings.
Pakistan’s chase began with a 52-run opening stand between Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam. Fakhar, making a comeback to the side, top-scored with a 69-ball 84, including seven fours and four sixes. His aggressive batting kept Pakistan’s hopes alive, but the lack of support from other batters proved costly.
After Babar Azam’s dismissal for 10, Pakistan’s middle order struggled to build partnerships. Salman Ali Agha (40) and Tayyab Tahir (30) tried to stabilize the innings, but regular wickets hampered their progress. The hosts were eventually bowled out for 252 in 47.5 overs, falling short by 78 runs.
New Zealand’s bowlers delivered a disciplined performance, with captain Mitchell Santner and Matt Henry taking three wickets each. Santner’s economical spell of 3 for 41 was particularly impactful, as he broke crucial partnerships in the middle overs. Michael Bracewell also contributed with two wickets, ensuring Pakistan never gained momentum in their chase.
New Zealand vs. South Africa
New Zealand will face South Africa in a day game at the Gaddafi Stadium on Monday. Both teams will look to build momentum as they aim for a spot in the final.
Pakistan’s Road to Redemption
Pakistan will travel to Karachi to take on South Africa in the third match of the tournament at the National Bank Stadium on Wednesday. After this heavy defeat, the hosts will need to regroup and address their batting and bowling concerns.
Final Showdown
The final of the Tri-Nation Series will be played between the top two teams at the National Bank Stadium on Friday afternoon. With strong performances from New Zealand and South Africa, the competition promises to be intense.
