Lahore-born New Zealand batter Muhammad Abbas etched his name into the record books on Saturday, achieving the fastest fifty on One Day International (ODI) debut. The 21-year-old right-handed batsman accomplished this feat during the first match of a three-match series against Pakistan at McLean Park in Napier.
Abbas, showcasing his aggressive style, reached his half-century in a mere 24 balls, surpassing the previous record held by India’s Krunal Pandya, who had taken 26 balls to reach the milestone against England in 2021. Abbas’s innings concluded with a brisk 52 runs off 26 deliveries, striking at an impressive rate of 200. His knock was punctuated by three fours and three sixes, injecting late momentum into New Zealand’s innings.
Reflecting on his debut, Abbas described the experience as “special,” and credited teammate Mark Chapman for his support at the crease. Chapman played a pivotal role in the match, scoring a match-winning 132 off 111 balls. “This is special. Can’t describe the feeling now. Special to contribute, and Chappy was unbelievable. To get in there and show what I can do is special to me and my family. They’re sitting in the crowd, so it’s quite special for them as well,” Abbas shared post-match.
Abbas also acknowledged the encouragement from New Zealand coach Gary Stead, who advised him to play his natural game. “Gary told me to go out there and do what I do best. That was the license I needed,” Abbas revealed.
New Zealand secured a convincing 73-run victory in the series opener, thanks to Chapman’s century and a four-wicket haul by right-arm seamer Nathan Smith. With this win, the Blackcaps now lead the series 1-0. The second match is scheduled for Wednesday in Hamilton, with the final game set for Saturday at Mount Maunganui.