Muhammad Abbas Sets ODI Record on Debut for New Zealand Against Pakistan
The young cricketer achieves the fastest fifty in ODI history on debut, marking a significant milestone in his career.
In a remarkable display of talent, Muhammad Abbas, a 21-year-old cricketer and the son of former Pakistan player Azhar Abbas, made history by scoring the fastest fifty on One Day International (ODI) debut.
The event took place during the first ODI between New Zealand and Pakistan at McLean Park in Napier, where Abbas reached his fifty off just 24 balls, surpassing the previous record held by India's Krunal Pandya, who achieved the milestone in 26 balls against England in 2021.
Abbas, born in Lahore and raised in Auckland, marked his arrival on the international stage with a performance that included 52 runs from 24 balls, featuring three fours and three sixes, translating to a striking strike rate of 200.
His powerful innings contributed to New Zealand's comprehensive 73-run victory, as the team posted a total of 344 for 9, while Pakistan managed to score 271 before being bowled out in the 45th over.
The match was also highlighted by a stellar century from Mark Chapman, who scored 132 runs off 111 balls.
New Zealand's bowling attack was spearheaded by Nathan Smith, who claimed four wickets in the match.
Abbas attributed his success to the strong foundation set by his teammates, particularly praising Chapman for his performance.
Following the game, he expressed his elation about his debut, stating, "This is special.
Can’t describe the feeling right now.
It means a lot to contribute, and Chappy was unbelievable.
To get in there and show what I can do is special for me and my family."
The significance of Muhammad Abbas's achievement resonates within his family history, as his father, Azhar Abbas, pursued a cricketing career in Pakistan's domestic circuit without reaching international representation.
His journey in cricket began in Auckland, where he honed his skills and developed a passion for the sport, encouraged by his father's involvement.
New Zealand's head coach, Gary Stead, noted Abbas's promising potential not only with the bat but also as a bowler.
He highlighted Abbas's ability to play spin and his skill in left-arm seam bowling, which adds depth to New Zealand's roster of all-rounders.
In addition to his batting feats on debut, Abbas also took the wicket of Pakistan's captain Mohammad Rizwan, ending with bowling figures of 1 for 43 in his seven overs.
His performance has positioned him as a player to watch in international cricket, affirming his status as a rising star in New Zealand's cricketing landscape.
The event took place during the first ODI between New Zealand and Pakistan at McLean Park in Napier, where Abbas reached his fifty off just 24 balls, surpassing the previous record held by India's Krunal Pandya, who achieved the milestone in 26 balls against England in 2021.
Abbas, born in Lahore and raised in Auckland, marked his arrival on the international stage with a performance that included 52 runs from 24 balls, featuring three fours and three sixes, translating to a striking strike rate of 200.
His powerful innings contributed to New Zealand's comprehensive 73-run victory, as the team posted a total of 344 for 9, while Pakistan managed to score 271 before being bowled out in the 45th over.
The match was also highlighted by a stellar century from Mark Chapman, who scored 132 runs off 111 balls.
New Zealand's bowling attack was spearheaded by Nathan Smith, who claimed four wickets in the match.
Abbas attributed his success to the strong foundation set by his teammates, particularly praising Chapman for his performance.
Following the game, he expressed his elation about his debut, stating, "This is special.
Can’t describe the feeling right now.
It means a lot to contribute, and Chappy was unbelievable.
To get in there and show what I can do is special for me and my family."
The significance of Muhammad Abbas's achievement resonates within his family history, as his father, Azhar Abbas, pursued a cricketing career in Pakistan's domestic circuit without reaching international representation.
His journey in cricket began in Auckland, where he honed his skills and developed a passion for the sport, encouraged by his father's involvement.
New Zealand's head coach, Gary Stead, noted Abbas's promising potential not only with the bat but also as a bowler.
He highlighted Abbas's ability to play spin and his skill in left-arm seam bowling, which adds depth to New Zealand's roster of all-rounders.
In addition to his batting feats on debut, Abbas also took the wicket of Pakistan's captain Mohammad Rizwan, ending with bowling figures of 1 for 43 in his seven overs.
His performance has positioned him as a player to watch in international cricket, affirming his status as a rising star in New Zealand's cricketing landscape.
Translation:
Translated by AI
