NZ vs PAK 1st ODI Highlight | Chapman Century, Smith Star as NZ Win by 73 Runs | NZ vs PAK Tour 2025

New Zealand vs Pakistan 1st ODI 2025: Chapman’s Century and Smith’s Four-for Seal 73-Run Win in Napier

The New Zealand vs Pakistan 1st ODI 2025 at McLean Park in Napier kicked off the Chemist Warehouse ODI series with fireworks, resilience, and a standout century from Mark Chapman that led the hosts to a commanding 73-run victory. On a batting-friendly surface with swing early on, New Zealand recovered from a shaky start to post 344/9, before bowling Pakistan out for 271 in the 45th over. The game saw debutants on both sides, fiery spells, big hits, and some world-class fielding, setting the tone for what promises to be an exciting Pakistan tour of New Zealand 2025.

Rizwan Wins Toss, Opts to Bowl in Return as Captain

Returning to lead Pakistan, Mohammad Rizwan won the toss and had no hesitation in choosing to bowl first in overcast conditions in Napier. The new-ball movement was evident early, with Naseem Shah and Shaheen Afridi finding swing and testing the edges. For New Zealand, it was a nervy start with Will Young beaten early and Nick Kelly, making his debut, showing promise with a crisp boundary before falling for 6.

New Zealand’s top order stumbled to 50/3 with Henry Nicholls and Will Young also falling cheaply. At that stage, it looked like Pakistan would restrict the hosts to a sub-par total. But that’s when Daryl Mitchell and Mark Chapman’s century in Napier turned the momentum.

Chapman and Mitchell Rebuild, Then Launch

Mark Chapman played arguably the innings of his international career, digging in through the middle overs and accelerating with clinical power in the death. He reached his century in 94 balls, eventually scoring 132 off just 104, peppering the boundaries with clean drives, flicks, and well-timed lofts. His partnership with Daryl Mitchell, who compiled a gritty 50 off 74, added stability and poise.

As Pakistan’s seamers struggled with variations at the death, Chapman capitalized with back-to-back sixes and aggressive strokeplay. The left-hander’s timing was impeccable, and his footwork against spin and pace alike showed confidence that lifted New Zealand out of early trouble. His ability to manipulate the field and target specific bowlers ensured the Black Caps stayed on course for a 300-plus total.

The final ten overs produced a flurry of runs with Abbas taking the attack to the bowlers and a few late fireworks from the tail. New Zealand ended their innings on 344/9, a total that looked out of reach after the first 15 overs but turned into a commanding position thanks to Chapman’s brilliance.

Pakistan's Reply Begins Brightly, But Falters Midway

Chasing 345 was never going to be easy, but Pakistan began positively with openers Abdullah Shafique and Imam-ul-Haq taking on the seamers. Shafique looked fluent, hitting a towering six and a few crisp boundaries before falling for 32, caught in the deep.

From there, the New Zealand vs Pakistan 1st ODI 2025 became a tug-of-war. Pakistan stayed in the hunt with Babar Azam leading from the front, crafting a stylish 78 and holding the innings together. He found support from Salman Ali Agha, who kept the scoreboard ticking with some fine shots through the off-side.

But just as Pakistan seemed to be building a launchpad, wickets started tumbling. Nathan Smith, who impressed with his discipline and clever changes of pace, emerged as the destroyer-in-chief. His spell broke the back of the chase, returning figures of 4/60, including the vital wickets of Salman and Babar.

Fielding, Bowling Win it for New Zealand

What truly set New Zealand apart in this game was their sharp fielding and smart bowling. Every chance that came their way was converted whether it was boundary-line catches, diving stops, or direct hits. Henry Nicholls and Ben Sears were agile in the outfield, and wicketkeeper Tom Blundell was quick behind the stumps.

Pakistan’s middle and lower order could not withstand the pressure. Mohammad Rizwan fell cheaply, and the tail collapsed in quick succession. Pakistan were eventually bowled out for 271 in 44.3 overs, handing New Zealand a crucial win in the series opener.

Key Performances That Defined the Match

The match belonged to Mark Chapman’s century in Napier, but Nathan Smith’s four-wicket haul ensured that Pakistan’s chase never reached a threatening stage. Mitchell’s fifty was the glue during the early rebuilding phase, while Abbas’s power-hitting ensured a strong finish.

For Pakistan, Babar Azam’s 78 was a classy knock that deserved more support, but the lack of substantial partnerships around him hurt their chances. Abbas Afridi’s 3/51 was the pick of the bowlers in a tough outing for the visiting attack.

What's Next in the Pakistan Tour of New Zealand 2025

The win gives New Zealand a 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series and boosts their confidence heading into the next game. For Pakistan, it's a chance to reassess their bowling strategies, especially at the death, and figure out how to convert strong starts into match-winning chases.

The Pakistan tour of New Zealand 2025 promises more high-quality cricket, with individual brilliance, fierce contests, and potential game-changers on both sides. The next match becomes crucial for Pakistan to level the series and regain momentum.