New Zealand Clinches 78-Run Victory Over Pakistan in Tri-Nations Series Opener
New Zealand showcased an impressive performance, defeating Pakistan by 78 runs in the opening match of the tri-nations series in Lahore. Glenn Phillips’ outstanding century and Mitchell Santner’s effective bowling were pivotal in this commanding victory.
Phillips Shines with Bat
Phillips scored an unbeaten 106 runs off just 74 balls, smashing seven sixes and six boundaries. His explosive innings helped propel New Zealand to a formidable total of 330-6 in their allotted 50 overs. Alongside Phillips, Daryl Mitchell contributed significantly with a solid 81 runs, while Kane Williamson added 58 to the scoreboard.
Santner’s Bowling Masterclass
On the bowling front, Mitchell Santner was the star, taking 3 wickets for 41 runs, effectively dismantling Pakistan’s batting line-up. Phillips also made his mark with the ball, dismissing Fakhar Zaman, who top-scored for Pakistan with 84 runs off 69 deliveries.
Pakistan began their innings with a promising opening partnership of 52 runs between Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam, but their momentum was halted when Azam fell for just 10 runs. The middle-order struggled against New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack, with Matt Henry and Michael Bracewell also contributing to Pakistan’s downfall.
Final Overs Seal the Deal
In the final phases of the match, New Zealand’s bowlers tightened their grip, and despite a 53-run partnership between Salman Agha and Tayyab Tahir, Pakistan was eventually bowled out for 252 in 47.5 overs. This match not only marked a solid start for New Zealand but also served as crucial preparation ahead of the upcoming Champions Trophy scheduled from February 19 to March 9 in Pakistan and the UAE.
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