New Zealand showcased their batting prowess in the first One Day International (ODI) against Pakistan at McLean Park in Napier on March 29, 2025, posting an impressive total of 344 runs for the loss of 9 wickets. This score marks New Zealand's second-highest total at home against Pakistan, a feat highlighted by Mark Chapman's outstanding performance.
Chapman, stepping into the limelight in the absence of captain Tom Latham, scored a career-best 132 runs off 111 balls, making it the highest ODI score by a New Zealand batter against Pakistan. The previous record was held by Ross Taylor, who scored an unbeaten 131 during the ICC World Cup 2011. Chapman's innings was a display of power and precision, featuring 13 fours and 6 sixes, and it came at a crucial time when New Zealand was struggling at 50 for 3 after the first 10 overs.
The partnership between Chapman and Daryl Mitchell proved to be the turning point in the match. Together, they forged a formidable 199-run partnership for the fourth wicket, which not only steadied the innings but also propelled New Zealand to a competitive total. Mitchell contributed significantly with a solid 76 runs from 84 balls, hitting 4 fours and 4 sixes before being dismissed in the 42nd over.
Despite a rocky start, New Zealand managed to recover thanks to the efforts of Chapman and Mitchell. The team's innings was initially shaky, losing three wickets early on, which put them under pressure. However, the pair’s ability to rotate the strike and build a partnership allowed the hosts to regain control of the game. After reaching 75 for 3 at the 20-over mark, New Zealand reached 104 for 3 at the midpoint of their innings, setting the stage for a strong finish.
Pakistan's bowling attack, which consisted of four specialist pacers and no spinner, struggled to contain the runs. Captain Mohammad Rizwan opted to bowl first after winning the toss, but the decision backfired as the New Zealand batsmen found their rhythm. The Pakistani bowlers, particularly Haris Rauf, showed promise, with Rauf taking two wickets for 38 runs in his 10 overs. Irfan Khan also had a notable performance, claiming three wickets but conceding 51 runs in five overs.
In a surprising twist, Muhammad Abbas, who made his debut for New Zealand, also made a significant impact by scoring 56 runs off just 26 balls. His explosive batting at number six helped New Zealand post a daunting total, despite wickets falling towards the end of the innings. Abbas expressed his excitement after the match, saying, "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, I think. Yes, they're sitting in the crowd. Quite special for them as well. Gary told me to go out there and do what you do best. That was the license I needed."
Pakistan, coming off a disappointing 4-1 loss in the preceding T20 series, entered the ODI series with hopes of redemption. However, their bowling unit once again faltered, allowing New Zealand to dictate the pace of the game. After a promising start that saw them reduce New Zealand to 50 for 3, the visitors failed to maintain their momentum, as Chapman and Mitchell took control of the innings.
In the second innings, Pakistan will need a strong response from their batting lineup to stay competitive in the series. With the pressure mounting on star batsman Babar Azam, who has been struggling for form, the team will look to bounce back in the upcoming matches. The second ODI is scheduled for April 2, 2025, in Hamilton, where both teams will aim to capitalize on their respective strengths.
As the match concluded, New Zealand emerged victorious by 110 runs, asserting their dominance in the first ODI. The performance not only sets a positive tone for the series but also showcases the depth and talent present in the New Zealand squad, particularly in the absence of several first-team players due to the Indian Premier League commitments.
In summary, New Zealand's batting display, led by Mark Chapman and Daryl Mitchell, proved too much for Pakistan to handle, as they look to regroup and strategize for the remaining matches in the series. With the second ODI looming, fans can expect an exciting clash as both teams vie for supremacy.
