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The first ODI of the three-match series between New Zealand and Pakistan at McLean Park, Napier, delivered an electrifying moment in the 38th over when Daryl Mitchell pulled off a sharp catch at the boundary to dismiss former Pakistan captain Babar Azam. The dismissal proved to be a turning point in New Zealand’s commanding 73-run victory in the series opener of Pakistan’s tour of New Zealand.
Daryl Mitchell’s stunning boundary catch sends back Babar Azam
With Pakistan in pursuit of a daunting 345-run target, Babar was holding the innings together with a well-compiled 78 off 83 deliveries. His knock, laced with 5 fours and 3 sixes, had kept Pakistan’s hopes alive despite the mounting required run rate. However, his dismissal at a crucial juncture exposed Pakistan’s brittle lower order, leading to a dramatic collapse.
The decisive moment came in the fourth ball of the 38th over when New Zealand pacer William O’Rourke delivered a short ball at Babar’s body. The Pakistan skipper instinctively pulled the ball flat and hard, but unfortunately, it traveled straight to deep square leg, where Mitchell was stationed. The ball rocketed towards him at a blistering pace, but the agile all-rounder exhibited remarkable reflexes and composure to complete a stunning catch just inches inside the boundary rope. With full awareness of his position, Mitchell immediately signaled a clean catch, leaving Babar and the Pakistani camp stunned.
This breakthrough came at a critical time for New Zealand, who were desperate to dismantle Pakistan’s resistance. Once Babar departed, the visiting side crumbled under pressure, losing their last six wickets for just 22 runs. The lower order failed to provide the much-needed stability, and Pakistan were eventually bundled out for 271 in 44.1 overs.
Here’s the video:
A crucial catch! The big wicket of Babar Azam (78) falls as Daryl Mitchell catches him on the boundary in the deep. Follow LIVE and free in NZ on TVNZ + & DUKE 📺 and @SportNationNZ 📻 Live scoring | https://t.co/CvmR1mQN5I #NZvPAK #CricketNation pic.twitter.com/hXmJwSQyQS
— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) March 29, 2025
Also READ: NZ vs PAK – Muhammad Abbas creates history, breaks Krunal Pandya’s ODI record on debut
Mark Chapman steers New Zealand to victory
New Zealand’s comprehensive win was built on a stellar batting performance, led by Mark Chapman’s career-best 132 and Daryl Mitchell’s crucial 75. Their 199-run stand helped the Black Caps recover from an early slump, guiding them to a formidable total of 344/9. Muhammad Abbas’s quickfire fifty added further impetus to their innings.
On the bowling front, Nathan Smith was the chief destroyer for New Zealand, picking up 4/60 and rattling Pakistan’s tail. O’Rourke’s ability to break partnerships, including the prized wicket of Babar, further solidified the home team’s dominance in the contest.
From 246/3 after 38 overs, Pakistan lost 7 wickets for just 22 runs to hand New Zealand a 1-0 lead in the ODI series 🏏#Cricket #NZvPAK #newzealandcricket #MarkChapman #BabarAzam𓃵 pic.twitter.com/wr5Vkfo5kK
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) March 29, 2025
This emphatic victory not only gave New Zealand a 1-0 lead in the series but also highlighted Pakistan’s struggles with middle-order stability and finishing prowess.
With two more ODIs remaining in the series, Pakistan will look to bounce back, while New Zealand will aim to carry forward their momentum.
Also READ: Fans celebrate Mark Chapman’s century as New Zealand outclass Pakistan in the 1st ODI
