Pakistan Women were defeated on Wednesday in the opening ODI match as New Zealand’s 16-year-old leg-spinner Amelia Kerr made her debut, making her one of the youngest players representing the hosts.
Pakistan’s Nain Abidi and Asmavia Iqbal scored 49 each before the visitors were all out for 156 in the 49th over. Sana Mir and Nida Dar were the only wicket-takers for the tourists as they claimed one wicket apiece.
Meanwhile, New Zealand skipper Suzie Bates blasted 64 from 46 balls to give the hosts an early advantage in the five-match ODI series. Bates and Sam Curtis teamed up for a 100-run opening stand as New Zealand made a flying start and were never troubled.
Amelia achieved the figures of 1-21 from her allotted 10 overs, which included two maidens. She removed Pakistan captain Sana Mir for one, and made an immediate impact in New Zealand’s eight-wicket win at Lincoln’s Bert Sutcliffe Oval, near Christchurch.
New Zealand wickets were shared around the attack with all six bowlers successful. Pacer Lea Tahuhu impressed with 3-37, while left-arm spinner Morna Nielsen chimed in with a return of 2-27.
The second ODI match of the series will be held at Lincoln on Friday.
