Pakistan’s cricket team faces a challenging pursuit as they aim to chase down a formidable target of 346 runs in the opening One Day International against New Zealand. The match, held in Napier, marks the first of a three-match series.
The opening partnership between Abdullah Shafique and Usman Khan provided a steady start for Pakistan, contributing 83 runs. Shafique contributed 36 runs while Khan added 39 before they were dismissed.
Electing to field first after winning the toss, Pakistan saw New Zealand post a competitive total of 345 for nine. Mark Chapman led the charge with a sterling innings, scoring 132 runs, including thirteen boundaries and six sixes. Daryl Mitchell and Muhammad Abbas supported with scores of 76 and 52, respectively.
On the bowling front for Pakistan, Irfan Khan picked up three wickets. Akif Javed and Haris Rauf each secured two wickets, striving to keep the target within reach.