In a thrilling display of cricket at McLean Park, Napier, Mark Chapman smashed a career-best 132 off 111 balls to steer New Zealand to a commanding 73-run victory over Pakistan in the first One Day International (ODI) of the series on Saturday.
Chapman’s innings, which included 13 boundaries and four sixes, was pivotal in helping New Zealand recover from an early stumble to 50 for 3, eventually posting a formidable total of 344-9. His 199-run partnership for the fourth wicket with Daryl Mitchell, who contributed 76 off 84 balls, was the backbone of the innings.
The match also saw a remarkable debut from Muhammad Abbas, who set a new world record for the quickest ODI half-century by a debutant, scoring 52 runs off just 24 balls. His explosive batting added the finishing touches to New Zealand’s innings.
Chasing a daunting target, Pakistan started promisingly, reaching 249 for 3, but a dramatic collapse ensued after Nathan Smith claimed 4 wickets for 60 runs. Pakistan was eventually bowled out for 271 in the 44th over, losing their last seven wickets for just 22 runs.
Babar Azam, the former Pakistan captain, top-scored for his team with 78 runs off 83 deliveries, but his dismissal triggered the collapse. Despite a valiant 58 from 48 balls by Salman Agha, poor shot selection by the lower order and tail-enders sealed Pakistan’s fate.
On the bowling front, Pakistani debutant Akif Javed impressed with figures of 2-55, while Irfan Khan chipped in with 3-51 in his five overs during the closing stages of New Zealand’s innings.
However, the joy of victory was tempered for New Zealand as Chapman suffered a hamstring injury while fielding, casting doubt over his participation in the second ODI.
New Zealand now leads the three-match series 1-0, with the next game scheduled to take place in Hamilton on Wednesday. Fans and teams alike will be eagerly watching to see if Chapman can recover in time to continue his stellar form.