Wed Apr 02 00:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Kiwi Debutant Smashes World Record in Victory Over Pakistan
**Napier, New Zealand –** Muhammad Abbas, a 21-year-old all-rounder playing for New Zealand against his native Pakistan, made a stunning ODI debut on Saturday, setting a new world record for the fastest fifty. Abbas blazed to 50 runs off just 24 balls, eclipsing the previous record held by India’s Krunal Pandya.
The Lahore-born cricketer, son of former first-class cricketer Azhar Abbas, joined the New Zealand innings at 249/4, needing a quick finish. His explosive innings included three sixes and three fours, propelling New Zealand to a commanding total. Abbas further showcased his all-round talent by claiming the crucial wicket of Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan. His performance contributed significantly to New Zealand’s resounding 73-run victory.
Abbas’s meteoric rise includes a remarkable seven centuries in Auckland club cricket at the age of 14, and recent strong performances in the Ford Trophy. His selection followed strong List A performances of 104 and 50. He honed his skills at King’s College, Auckland, under former New Zealand spinner Dipak Patel, and recently played for Wellington Firebirds. His family moved to New Zealand when he was young, and he’s now a key member of the BlackCaps ODI squad. The record-breaking debut cemented Abbas’s arrival on the international cricketing scene.
First Piper 