New Zealand Defeats Pakistan in ODI Tri-Series Opener

New Zealand secured a decisive 78-run victory over Pakistan in the first ODI of the tri-series in Lahore, thanks to a stunning century by Glenn Phillips and key contributions from Daryl Mitchell and Kane Williamson. Phillips scored 106 not out from 74 balls, with 77 of those runs coming in the last 32 balls, enabling New Zealand to post a formidable total of 330/6. Pakistan's chase was spearheaded by Fakhar Zaman, who scored 84 off 69 balls, but after his dismissal by Phillips, Pakistan's innings faltered. The spin trio of Mitchell Santner, Michael Bracewell, and Phillips were instrumental, with Santner claiming 3-41 to help dismiss Pakistan for 252. Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah struggled in the final overs, with Afridi bowling the most expensive over of his career, conceding 25 runs. The match also marked the first international game at the renovated Gaddafi Stadium, setting the stage for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy.