Sat Mar 29 04:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Babar Azam’s Brilliant Knock in Vain as Pakistan Falls Short Against New Zealand

**Napier, New Zealand –** Pakistan captain Babar Azam produced a stunning 78 off 83 balls in the first ODI against New Zealand on March 29th, but his efforts were overshadowed by a 73-run defeat. Despite his impressive innings, which included five fours and three sixes, and propelled him to third on the list of Pakistan’s highest ODI run-scorers against New Zealand, Pakistan failed to chase down New Zealand’s imposing 345.

Azam’s performance marked his 36th ODI half-century, taking his career tally to 6,184 runs at an average of 55.71. He surpassed Shahid Afridi, Fakhar Zaman, and Saleem Malik to claim the third spot in the Pakistan vs. New Zealand ODI run charts with 1,087 runs in 24 matches, trailing only Inzamam-ul-Haq and Saeed Anwar.

Furthermore, ESPNcricinfo data highlights Azam’s exceptional consistency. He currently holds the third-best batting average amongst players with over 50 ODIs, surpassing cricketing greats like AB de Villiers, MS Dhoni, Kane Williamson, and Hashim Amla. Only India’s Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli boast higher averages.

While Azam anchored the innings, a valuable 85-run partnership with Salman Agha (58 off 48) provided brief hope. However, Pakistan’s lower order crumbled, collapsing from 249/3 to 271 all out. Agha’s performance also deserves mention, with his innings contributing significantly to Pakistan’s near-successful chase. Despite the loss, Babar Azam’s individual brilliance continues to solidify his reputation as one of the leading batsmen in world cricket.

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