Chapman’s Heroics Lead New Zealand to Dominant Victory Over Pakistan
Mark Chapman delivered a masterclass with the bat, smashing a brilliant century, while Nathan Smith’s four-wicket haul powered New Zealand to a convincing 73-run triumph over Pakistan in the opening ODI in Napier on Saturday.
Chapman’s career-best knock of 132 was instrumental in propelling the Black Caps to an imposing total of 344-9 at McLean Park. Despite Pakistan appearing well-placed in their chase at 249-3, they suffered a dramatic collapse, losing their final seven wickets for just 22 runs and folding for 271 in the 45th over.
Pakistan’s Chase Falters After Strong Start
With more than 11 overs remaining and 96 runs needed, Pakistan seemed on course for a potential win. However, the momentum shifted when Smith (4-60) spearheaded a bowling onslaught, dismantling the middle and lower order.
Babar Azam, returning to the side, anchored Pakistan’s innings with a fluent 78 off 83 deliveries, but his departure triggered a downward spiral. Salman Agha showed resilience with a fighting 58 off 48 balls, yet his efforts were undone by reckless shots from his lower-order teammates, handing New Zealand a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
Chapman and Mitchell Anchor New Zealand’s Innings
Earlier in the match, New Zealand faced early troubles after being put in to bat, stumbling to 50-3. However, Chapman, with his exquisite stroke play, rescued the innings alongside Daryl Mitchell (76 off 84). Their massive 199-run fourth-wicket stand set the foundation for a formidable total.
The innings ended on a high note thanks to debutant Muhammad Abbas, who made an explosive impact. The Pakistan-born all-rounder hammered 52 runs, achieving a historic milestone by registering the fastest fifty on ODI debut—reaching 50 off just 24 balls.
Pakistan’s Bowlers Struggle to Contain New Zealand
Pakistan’s pace-heavy bowling attack initially exploited the pitch’s bounce but failed to sustain pressure in the later stages. Left-arm quick Akif Javed impressed on his international debut, returning figures of 2-55. However, part-time seamer Irfan Khan proved costly, despite finishing with 3-51 in just five overs.
Both teams made several changes from their recent T20I encounters, where New Zealand clinched the five-match series 4-1. The second ODI will be played in Hamilton on Wednesday.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How did Mark Chapman’s innings impact the match?
Chapman’s century was the backbone of New Zealand’s innings, helping them recover from early setbacks and post a formidable total of 344.
2. What caused Pakistan’s batting collapse?
Pakistan was in a strong position at 249-3 but crumbled under pressure, losing seven wickets for just 22 runs due to poor shot selection and tight New Zealand bowling.
3. Who were the standout bowlers in the match?
Nathan Smith’s 4-60 played a crucial role in dismantling Pakistan’s lower order, while Akif Javed and Irfan Khan were notable performers for Pakistan.
4. What record did Muhammad Abbas set?
On his debut, Abbas set a world record for the fastest half-century by an ODI debutant, reaching the milestone in just 24 balls.
5. When is the next ODI between New Zealand and Pakistan?
The second ODI is scheduled to take place in Hamilton on Wednesday.
