New Zealand’s young sensation Muhammad Abbas announced his arrival on the international stage in emphatic fashion, setting a new record for the fastest half-century on ODI debut.
The 21-year-old batter reached the milestone in just 24 deliveries against Pakistan in the first ODI at McLean Park on Saturday, surpassing the previous record held by India’s Krunal Pandya.
Pandya had set the benchmark in 2021 when he struck a fifty off 26 balls against England.
Abbas’ blistering innings broke that record and played a crucial role in New Zealand’s commanding victory over Pakistan.
For Pakistan, the fastest ODI fifty on debut remains with Nasir Jamshed, who achieved the feat in 40 deliveries against Zimbabwe in 2008.
Abbas’ knock highlights his immense potential and marks him as a player to watch in New Zealand’s future white-ball campaigns.