Glenn Phillips’ Blazing Century Propels New Zealand to 78-Run Win Over Pakistan in First ODI
Lahore, February 2025 – New Zealand began their tri-series campaign with a commanding 78-run victory over Pakistan in the first ODI at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. A breathtaking 106 off 72 balls* from Glenn Phillips, combined with strong contributions from Daryl Mitchell (81) and Kane Williamson (58), propelled New Zealand to a formidable 330 for 6. Pakistan, despite a valiant 84 from Fakhar Zaman, faltered in the chase, bowled out for 252.
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Phillips Turns the Game in New Zealand’s Favor
After winning the toss and electing to bat, New Zealand started steadily with Rachin Ravindra (24) and Will Young (12) before Williamson and Mitchell took control. The pair stitched together an 89-run stand, stabilizing the innings. While Pakistan managed to break partnerships at regular intervals, they had no answer for Phillips' stunning late assault.
Entering at 187 for 4 in the 34th over, Phillips played himself in before launching a ferocious attack in the death overs. His century came off just 72 balls, including 5 sixes and 9 fours, with 98 runs added in the last six overs. Shaheen Afridi (3-88) managed key breakthroughs, but Pakistan's bowlers struggled for control as Phillips took apart Haris Rauf and Mohammad Wasim Jr.
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Pakistan’s Chase Falters Despite Fakhar’s Heroics
In response, Pakistan needed a strong start, and Fakhar Zaman delivered, racing to 84 off 69 balls with 10 fours and 2 sixes. However, he found little support. Babar Azam (27) and Mohammad Rizwan (33) got starts but couldn’t capitalize. Once Phillips, who had a dream outing, dismissed Fakhar LBW, Pakistan’s chase lost momentum.
Mitchell Santner (3-41) and Matt Henry (2-45) consistently applied pressure, and wickets tumbled. Pakistan’s middle and lower order crumbled under scoreboard pressure, with Salman Ali Agha (24) and Shaheen Afridi (15) offering brief resistance. The situation worsened when Haris Rauf suffered an injury, preventing him from batting, leaving Pakistan a man short.
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Looking Ahead
New Zealand’s dominant performance set the tone for the tri-series, showcasing their well-rounded squad strength. Pakistan, meanwhile, will need to regroup and address their bowling concerns, especially in the death overs, before the next game.
With confidence soaring, New Zealand will look to build on their momentum, while Pakistan will be desperate to bounce b
ack in the upcoming matches.