From Lahore to New Zealand, a debut for the ages—how Muhammad Abbas shattered records and made history!
A Dream Debut
In a thrilling match at Napier’s McLean Park, Muhammad Abbas announced his arrival in international cricket with a bang. The 24-year-old all-rounder smashed the fastest fifty on ODI debut, reaching the milestone in just 24 balls. This broke the previous record held by India’s Krunal Pandya, who had scored a 26-ball fifty in 2021.
New Zealand, batting first, posted a strong total of 344/9, thanks to Mark Chapman’s 132 and Daryl Mitchell’s 76. But it was Abbas’s blistering knock that stole the spotlight, leaving fans and critics in awe.
#StatChat | 21-year-old Muhammad Abbas rocketed to the fast-ever fifty on ODI debut. His fifty came from just 24 balls, beating the record of 26 balls previously held by Krunal Pandya. #NZvPAK #CricketNation 📷 = @PhotosportNZ pic.twitter.com/ZpUqrVoo30
— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) March 29, 2025
From Lahore to New Zealand: A Cricket Journey
Born in Lahore, Pakistan, Abbas comes from a cricket-loving family. His father, Azhar Abbas, played 45 first-class matches in Pakistan before moving to New Zealand, where he continued his career and later became an assistant coach for Wellington Firebirds.
Following in his father’s footsteps, Muhammad made his domestic debut for Wellington and quickly rose through the ranks.
With 21 first-class matches, 1,301 runs, and 12 wickets to his name, Abbas had already shown promise. But his ODI debut proved he was ready for the big stage.
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Pakistan’s Collapse and New Zealand’s Dominance
Chasing 345, Pakistan seemed in control at 249/3, with Babar Azam scoring a solid 78. However, a dramatic collapse saw them lose their last seven wickets for just 22 runs, thanks to Nathan Smith’s 4/60. Salman Agha fought hard with a quick 58, but Pakistan fell short, bowled out for 271.
What’s Next for Abbas?
Abbas’s record-breaking debut has set high expectations. As the first Pakistan-born player to represent New Zealand internationally, his journey is just beginning. Can he continue this form and become a key player for the Black Caps? Only time will tell.
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