Napier, Mar 29 (UNI) New Zealand registered a comprehensive 73-run victory over Pakistan in the first One Day International (ODI) of the ongoing series at McLean Park here on Saturday.
After being put in to bat, the hosts posted a formidable total of 344 for nine in their allotted 50 overs. New Zealand’s batting was led by a collective effort, with key contributions from their top and middle order. In reply, Pakistan were bowled out for 271 in 44.1 overs despite a valiant knock from Babar Azam (78 off 83 balls).
For Pakistan, Usman Khan (39), Abdullah Shafique (36), and Salman Agha (58) made notable contributions, but wickets fell at regular intervals, derailing their chase. Skipper Mohammad Rizwan managed 30 runs before falling to Muhammad Abbas.
New Zealand’s bowling attack was spearheaded by Nathan Smith, who claimed four wickets for 60 runs in his 8.1-over spell. Jacob Duffy (2/57) and Michael Bracewell (1/60) also played crucial roles in restricting Pakistan’s batting lineup.
Earlier, Pakistan won the toss and elected to field first. Their bowlers struggled to contain New Zealand’s aggressive batting, allowing the hosts to post an imposing total. Despite some resistance from Pakistan’s middle order, the required run rate proved too steep.
The second ODI of the series will be played on March 31 at the same venue.
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