PAK vs NZ: Fakhar Zaman Overtakes Babar Azam in ODI Chasing Record vs New Zealand

Pakistan made a bold decision to experiment with their batting lineup in the first ODI against New Zealand, promoting Babar Azam to open the innings. However, the move backfired as the star batter managed just 10 runs before being dismissed by Michael Bracewell. Notably, this was the seventh time Bracewell has dismissed Babar in international cricket.

Kamran Ghulam, who was included in the batting order, also failed to make an impact, scoring just 18 runs off 32 balls before falling to Mitchell Santner. Despite these early setbacks, Fakhar Zaman stepped up in style, making a stunning comeback with an explosive half-century.

Fakhar Zaman Surpasses Babar Azam in ODI Chasing Record

While Fakhar was still at the crease at the time of writing, he had already achieved a special milestone. With his latest half-century, he surpassed Babar Azam’s record for the most 50+ scores while chasing against New Zealand in ODIs. Fakhar now holds the record with seven such scores, overtaking Babar and Saeed Anwar, who have six each.

Most ODI 50+ Scores Against New Zealand While Chasing (Pakistan Players):

• 07 – Fakhar Zaman**
• 06 – Babar Azam
• 06 – Saeed Anwar

Pakistan’s Chase So Far

At the end of 21 overs, Pakistan were 112/2, with Fakhar Zaman leading the charge. He was batting on 80 off 66 balls, striking six fours and four sixes at a blistering strike rate of 121.21. Skipper Mohammad Rizwan was at the other end with 2 runs off 5 balls.