In the first One Day International (ODI) between New Zealand and Pakistan at McLean Park in Napier on March 29, 2025, New Zealand secured a 73-run victory. Batting first, New Zealand posted a total of 344-9, propelled by Mark Chapman’s career-best 132 and Daryl Mitchell’s 76. Debutant Muhammad Abbas contributed a rapid 52, setting a world record for the fastest half-century on debut, reaching 50 off just 24 balls.Â
Pakistan’s chase appeared promising at 249-3, with Babar Azam scoring 78 and Salman Agha adding a quick 58. However, following Babar’s dismissal, the team suffered a collapse, losing their last seven wickets for just 22 runs, culminating in a total of 271 in the 45th over. New Zealand’s seamer Nathan Smith was instrumental in this collapse, claiming 4-60.Â
The second match of the three-match series is scheduled to take place in Hamilton on Wednesday.
