Pakistan’s three-match ODI series against New Zealand began on a disappointing note as the visitors suffered a crushing 73-run defeat in the opening match.
Adding to their woes, Pakistan’s bowlers set an unwanted record by conceding 43 extras—the third-highest in their ODI history.
The Men in Green struggled with discipline throughout New Zealand’s innings, giving away wides and leg-byes that contributed significantly to the hosts’ imposing total of 344 runs.
This performance placed Pakistan among the highest extra-conceding teams in ODI history.
The record for the most extras conceded in an ODI is jointly held by West Indies and Scotland, who gave away 59 runs each.
For Pakistan, their worst-ever extras tally remains 47, which was conceded against New Zealand in Manchester during the 1999 World Cup.
Additionally, they have twice conceded 44 extras—against Sri Lanka in Sharjah (1990) and against New Zealand in Dambulla (2003).
Despite notable batting efforts from Babar Azam and Salman Ali Agha, Pakistan failed to chase the mammoth target and now trail 1-0 in the series.
Looking ahead, the second ODI will take place on April 2 in Hamilton, while the series finale is scheduled for April 5 in Mount Maunganui.