The One Day International (ODI) series between host New Zealand and Pakistan has begun following their T20I series. The first match of the three-match ODI series is being played at McLean Park in Napier.
Sports News: The ODI series between New Zealand and Pakistan commenced with a bang. In the first ODI at Napier's McLean Park, Kiwi batsman Mark Chapman delivered a stellar performance, breaking a 14-year-old record. Batting first, New Zealand posted a massive 344 runs, highlighted by Chapman's magnificent century.
Chapman's Explosive Innings Rewrites History
New Zealand, after winning the toss and electing to bat, didn't have the ideal start. At 50/3, the team found themselves under pressure. However, Mark Chapman, alongside Daryl Mitchell, steadied the innings. Chapman played a superb knock of 132 runs off 111 balls, including 13 fours and 6 towering sixes. In doing so, Chapman shattered Ross Taylor's 14-year-old record.
Ross Taylor's Record Broken
Previously, the highest ODI score by a New Zealander against Pakistan was held by Ross Taylor. Taylor achieved this feat in 2011 with an unbeaten 131 runs. Chapman surpassed this record with his 132 runs. When New Zealand was teetering at 50/3, Chapman and Mitchell forged a crucial 199-run partnership for the fourth wicket. This partnership not only rescued New Zealand from a precarious situation but also propelled them to a massive total.
Another Notable Achievement for Chapman
This was Chapman's third ODI century and his second for New Zealand. Interestingly, Chapman was born in Hong Kong and began his ODI career representing Hong Kong in 2015. After playing two ODIs for Hong Kong, he opted to play for New Zealand, making his debut against England in 2018. He became the tenth player in the world to play ODI internationals for two countries.
By setting a challenging target of 344 runs, New Zealand has presented Pakistan with a tough challenge. Chapman's historic century and Daryl Mitchell's b partnership ensured the Kiwis dominated the first ODI of the series.
