Phillips Smashes Maiden ODI Ton as Kiwis Dominate in Lahore

New Delhi: Glenn Phillips and Daryl Mitchell delivered standout performances as New Zealand crushed Pakistan by 78 runs at the newly-renovated Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore to kick off their tri-series campaign in style.

Phillips hammered an unbeaten 106 off 74 balls, securing his maiden ODI century, while Mitchell’s 81 helped the visitors set a commanding total of 330 runs after opting to bat first. New Zealand’s bowlers then bundled out Pakistan for just 252, securing a comfortable victory and climbing to the top of the tri-series points table with two points.

New Zealand’s Innings: Phillips & Mitchell Lead the Charge

Winning the toss and batting first, New Zealand got off to a shaky start, losing opener Will Young for just 4 runs in the very first over, courtesy of left-arm pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi. Soon after, Rachin Ravindra (25) also departed, leaving the Kiwis struggling at 39/2.

However, skipper Kane Williamson (58 off 89 balls) and Mitchell (81 off 76 balls) built a solid 95-run partnership for the third wicket, stabilizing the innings. After Williamson’s dismissal by Shaheen, Mitchell continued his fine form, adding a crucial 65-run stand with Phillips for the fifth wicket.

Glenn Phillips Steals the Show

Phillips turned the game on its head, smashing Pakistan’s bowlers all over the park in a stunning 106-run knock off 74 balls, decorated with 6 fours and 7 sixes. His power-hitting display, combined with a late 23-ball 31 cameo from Michael Bracewell, propelled New Zealand to an imposing total of 330 runs.

The Kiwi all-rounder even smashed 25 runs off Shaheen Afridi’s final over, ensuring a daunting target for the hosts.

Pakistan’s Chase: Fakhar Zaman Fights Lone Battle

In response, Pakistan got off to a disappointing start as Babar Azam fell early for just 10 runs. However, opener Fakhar Zaman fought back with a brilliant 84 off 69 balls, setting a brisk pace for the hosts.

Despite his aggressive knock, lack of support from the middle order hurt Pakistan’s chances. Kamran Ghulam (18) and skipper Mohammad Rizwan (3) failed to build momentum, while Salman Agha (40) and Tayyab Tahir (30) offered resistance but couldn't take the game deep.

The defining moment came when Phillips dismissed Fakhar lbw in the 24th over, reducing Pakistan to 119/4. From there, the hosts lost control as New Zealand’s spinners Michael Bracewell and Mitchell Santner tore through the top order, while pacer Matt Henry cleaned up the tail to seal the win.

Tri-Series and Pakistan’s Must-Win Situation

The ongoing tri-series features Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa as a preparatory event ahead of the Champions Trophy 2025. Each team will play one match against the other before the top two teams meet in the final.

Pakistan now finds itself in a must-win situation against South Africa on Wednesday, February 12, as their defeat against New Zealand significantly dents their chances of reaching the final.

With an emphatic all-round performance, New Zealand has made a strong statement and will look to carry this momentum forward in the tournament.