Pakistan’s hopes were dashed in the first ODI against New Zealand at Napier, as they succumbed to a crushing 73-run defeat despite glimpses of promise. Mark Chapman stole the show with a scintillating 132 off 111 balls, earning him the Player of the Match award. However, for Pakistan, it was a tale of missed opportunities and unfulfilled potential.
Three Key Factors That Derailed Pakistan’s Campaign
Bowling Woes Despite Early Breakthroughs
Pakistan’s bowlers started with a bang, reducing New Zealand to 50/3. But what followed was a nightmare. Mark Chapman and Daryl Mitchell orchestrated a mammoth 199-run partnership for the fourth wicket, leaving Pakistan’s attack in tatters. Chapman’s 132 and Mitchell’s 76 were complemented by debutant Muhammad Abbas’s explosive 52 off 26 balls, propelling New Zealand to a formidable 344/9. The death overs were particularly disastrous, as Pakistan’s bowlers leaked runs at an alarming rate.
Batting Collapse After a Promising Start
Chasing 345, Pakistan seemed to be in control at 249/3, with Babar Azam (78) and Agha Salman (57) anchoring the innings. However, what followed was a catastrophic collapse. The team lost 7 wickets for just 22 runs, folding at 271. Mohammad Rizwan’s early departure and the middle-order’s inability to handle pressure handed New Zealand a comfortable victory.
Rizwan’s Dual Failure: Captaincy and Batting
Mohammad Rizwan had a day to forget, both as a captain and a batsman. His field placements failed to contain New Zealand’s resurgence, and his 30 off 34 balls lacked impact. His dismissal at 164/3, caught behind off Muhammad Abbas, triggered Pakistan’s collapse. Rizwan’s inability to lead from the front was glaring, as his batting and tactical decisions fell short of expectations.
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