New Zealand Dominate Pakistan with 78-Run Victory in Tri-Series Opener | PAK vs NZ ODI Highlights 2025

Glenn Phillips Shines as New Zealand Crush Pakistan by 78 Runs in Lahore

New Zealand kicked off the Pakistan ODI Tri-Series 2025 with an emphatic 78-run victory over the hosts at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium on February 8. Powered by Glenn Phillips' breathtaking century and a clinical bowling performance led by skipper Mitchell Santner, the Kiwis outclassed Pakistan in all departments, making a strong statement in their series opener.

After winning the toss and opting to bat first, New Zealand put up an imposing total of 330/6, with Phillips stealing the show with his maiden ODI century. Pakistan, despite a spirited knock from Fakhar Zaman, faltered in their chase, folding for 252 in 47.5 overs.

New Zealand’s Batting Masterclass

New Zealand’s innings was a perfect blend of grit and aggression. The early dismissal of Will Young, caught behind off Shaheen Afridi for just 4 runs, didn’t deter the visitors. Captain Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell anchored the innings with steady half-centuries, ensuring a solid foundation. Williamson’s 58 off 89 balls was a patient knock, while Mitchell added a brisk 81 off 84 balls, peppered with eight boundaries and a six.

However, the real fireworks came from Glenn Phillips, who showcased his aggressive prowess with an unbeaten 106 off just 74 balls. His innings, studded with six towering sixes and seven boundaries, dismantled Pakistan’s bowling attack, particularly in the death overs. Supported by Mitchell Santner’s quickfire 85*, the duo plundered 84 runs in the final five overs, taking the game away from Pakistan on what was otherwise a moderately paced pitch.

Shaheen Afridi was the pick of the bowlers for Pakistan, claiming 3/88 in his 10 overs, while Abrar Ahmed chipped in with two wickets. However, Pakistan’s bowlers struggled to contain the run flow in the latter stages, which ultimately proved costly.

Pakistan’s Faltering Chase

Chasing a mammoth 331 was always going to be a daunting task, and Pakistan’s innings never quite found the momentum needed. The early loss of captain Babar Azam for 10 runs, caught by Glenn Phillips off Michael Bracewell, set the tone for a challenging chase. Fakhar Zaman, however, provided hope with an aggressive 84 off 69 balls, smashing seven fours and four sixes. His brisk innings kept Pakistan in the hunt, but his dismissal at a crucial juncture tilted the game firmly in New Zealand’s favor.

Kamran Ghulam and Mohammad Rizwan failed to build meaningful partnerships, with both falling cheaply to Mitchell Santner, who was brilliant with the ball, picking up 3/24 in his 10 overs. Salman Agha and Tayyab Tahir tried to stabilize the innings with a 50-run stand, but the required run rate kept mounting. Once Zaman was dismissed, the middle and lower order crumbled under the scoreboard pressure.

Matt Henry also played a pivotal role with the ball, claiming 3/50, while Michael Bracewell’s off-spin fetched two crucial wickets. Glenn Phillips capped off his dream match by contributing with the ball as well, dismissing Fakhar Zaman to trigger Pakistan’s collapse.

Injury Concerns for Both Teams

While New Zealand celebrated a comprehensive win, there were concerns surrounding the health of all-rounder Rachin Ravindra. During Pakistan’s innings, Ravindra suffered a head injury while attempting a catch off Khushdil Shah’s slog sweep. The ball struck him directly on the head after he lost sight of it under the lights, leaving him bleeding and requiring immediate medical attention. He was escorted off the field for further evaluation, and his availability for the remainder of the series remains uncertain.

Pakistan also faced an injury scare as fast bowler Haris Rauf limped off the field mid-over due to a side strain. He did not return to bowl or bat, raising doubts about his participation in the upcoming matches. His absence was felt keenly as New Zealand’s batters took advantage of a weakened bowling attack during the death overs.

Pakistan vs New Zealand, 1st ODI

Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore - 8 February 2025

New Zealand: 330/6 (50 overs; G Phillips 106*, D Mitchell 81; S Afridi 3-88, A Ahmed 2-41)
Pakistan: 252 all out (47.5 overs; F Zaman 84, B Azam 10; M Santner 3-24, M Henry 3-50)

New Zealand won by 78 runs

Key Takeaways and What’s Next

New Zealand’s comprehensive victory sets the tone for their campaign in the tri-series. Glenn Phillips' explosive batting and Mitchell Santner’s all-round performance showcased the depth and versatility in the Kiwi lineup. The win will undoubtedly boost their confidence as they look ahead to the next matches and gear up for the ICC Champions Trophy later this year.

For Pakistan, the loss raises several questions, particularly around their middle-order stability and bowling in the death overs. The early dismissals of key players like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan exposed the team’s vulnerability under pressure. Additionally, the potential loss of Haris Rauf could further complicate their plans moving forward.

Both teams will now look to address their respective concerns, with fans eagerly awaiting updates on Rachin Ravindra and Haris Rauf’s fitness. As the tri-series progresses, Pakistan will aim to bounce back stronger, while New Zealand will look to carry this momentum forward.

The cricketing action continues in Lahore, with the next match promising more excitement as the tri-series heats up.