Muhammad Abbas’ Record Knock Helps Kiwis Down Pakistan in First ODI

Pakistani-born New Zealander Muhammad Abbas made a sensational start to his international ODI career, delivering a record-breaking performance against the country of his birth. The 21-year-old played with the confidence of a seasoned pro, launching a late onslaught that propelled New Zealand to a formidable total and secured his place in cricketing history.

In his debut innings, Muhammad Abbas struck three fours and three sixes on his way to the fastest fifty ever recorded in an ODI debut. He reached the milestone in just 24 balls, surpassing India’s Krunal Pandya, who had previously set the record with a 26-ball half-century against England in 2021.

Fastest Fifties on ODI Debut

Abbas’ late fireworks helped New Zealand post a commanding total of 344-9, with Mark Chapman leading the charge with a brilliant century, while Daryl Mitchell also made a valuable contribution.

In response, Pakistan appeared to be in control, seemingly on course for just their second win of the tour, before a familiar batting collapse saw them crumble to 271 all out—falling 73 runs short of the target. Usman Khan, Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Salman Ali Agha all got starts, each crossing the 30-run mark, but none managed to convert their innings into a match-winning effort, falling at critical moments.

With New Zealand taking a 1-0 lead in the series, Pakistan will have a chance to bounce back in the second ODI, scheduled for April 2.