By: Shahzaib Shahzad
Lahore, Pakistan (AP) — Glenn Phillips made a stunning statement ahead of the Champions Trophy, smashing his maiden ODI century to guide New Zealand to a dominant 78-run victory over Pakistan in the opening match of the tri-nation series at the newly renovated Gaddafi Stadium on Saturday.
Phillips’ unbeaten 106 off just 74 balls, studded with six boundaries and seven towering sixes, lifted New Zealand to an imposing total of 330-6 in 50 overs. Daryl Mitchell (81) and Kane Williamson (58) also made crucial contributions, taking full advantage of a batting-friendly surface.
In response, Fakhar Zaman led Pakistan’s charge with an aggressive 84 off 69 balls, making a strong return to international cricket after a seven-month absence due to illness. However, the rest of the top order struggled against New Zealand’s spin attack, leading to Pakistan’s downfall as they were bowled out for 252 in 47.5 overs.
Phillips and Mitchell Punish Pakistan’s Bowling
New Zealand got off to a steady start, with openers Finn Allen and Devon Conway laying the foundation with a 65-run stand before Haris Rauf dismissed Allen for 36. Conway followed soon after for 42, but Williamson and Mitchell steadied the innings with a fluent 102-run partnership.
Pakistan’s bowlers, led by Shaheen Afridi and Rauf, tried to contain the runs, but the lack of penetration in the middle overs allowed New Zealand to accelerate. Phillips took charge in the death overs, smashing boundaries at will and reaching his century in just 72 balls. His late onslaught ensured New Zealand crossed the 330-run mark, leaving Pakistan with a mountain to climb.
Pakistan’s Batting Struggles Continue
Pakistan’s chase began with promise, as Fakhar Zaman looked in sublime touch, taking on the Kiwi pacers with authority. However, his aggressive approach lacked support from the other end. Imam-ul-Haq fell cheaply, while captain Babar Azam’s struggles continued as he labored to 27 off 42 balls before mistiming a shot against Ish Sodhi.
With Babar’s slow innings putting pressure on the middle order, the required run rate climbed quickly. Despite a late cameo from Iftikhar Ahmed (41 off 34), Pakistan never recovered from the early setbacks and lost wickets at regular intervals.
Public Frustration with Babar Azam’s Performance
Following Pakistan’s defeat, fans took to social media to express their frustration, particularly with Babar Azam’s underwhelming performance. Many criticized his cautious approach, arguing that his inability to accelerate in a high-scoring chase put extra pressure on the middle order.
Mohammad Saeed, a cricket enthusiast at Gaddafi Stadium, voiced his disappointment: “We expect more from Babar Azam. He is our captain and the best batsman, but his slow innings today cost us the match. If he had played with more intent, the pressure wouldn’t have built up.”
Similarly, Ali Raza, another spectator, remarked: “Fakhar Zaman showed how to bat on this pitch. Babar should have taken responsibility instead of blocking deliveries. This approach won’t work in modern cricket.”
Social media platforms were flooded with criticism, with hashtags like #BabarOut and #NeedNewCaptain trending. Many fans called for a more aggressive mindset from the captain, particularly in high-pressure chases.
What’s Next for Pakistan?
With this defeat, Pakistan will have to regroup quickly as they face South Africa in their next match. The team management will need to address concerns over their batting approach and middle-order consistency.
New Zealand, on the other hand, will be pleased with their strong start, with Phillips and Mitchell gaining crucial momentum ahead of the Champions Trophy.
As the tri-nation series progresses, Pakistan’s fans will be hoping for a turnaround, especially from their captain. For now, the frustration remains high as another batting collapse overshadows an otherwise promising performance from Fakhar Zaman.