Muhammad Abbas breaks ODI world record on debut playing for New Zealand vs Pakistan

Lahore born, New Zealand debutant cricketer Muhammad Abbas smashed the ODI world record for the fastest ODI fifty on debut while playing against Pakistan in the first ODI of the series.
Mohammad Abbas playing his first match for New Zealand smashed 52 off 24 balls against Pakistan to set a new record.

Abbas ignited the end of the New Zealand innings at McLean Park with his 52, setting a world record for the fastest half-century. Abbas broke the record of India all-rounder Krunal who had smashed a 26-ball fifty on his ODI debut.

Son of Azhar Abbas, who has played first-class cricket in Pakistan and New Zealand, Abbas junior walked out to bat at No.6 when New Zealand, at 249/4 in 41.3 overs, were in search of some quick runs to finish strong in the series opener. The right-handed batter, who also bowls handy left-arm seam, smashed three sixes and three fours in a dazzling display of strokeplay.

With the ball, Abbas Junior picked up the important wicket of Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan to show his all-round skills. He played a crucial role in New Zealand’s 73-run victory.

Abbas earned his maiden ODI call-up on the back of 104 and 50 in his last two List A innings. The 21-year-old moved to New Zealand very young after his father, Azhar Abbas, decided to settle in Wellington.

Abbas’s family relocated to Wellington in December 2022, where he joined his father’s former club, Karori, before earning a contract with the Wellington Firebirds in July 2023. His domestic career took off swiftly, with a first-class debut for Wellington against Otago on February 25, 2023. His performances in the Ford Trophy, New Zealand’s premier domestic one-day competition, showcased his batting prowess, placing him among the top scorers and earning praise for his ability to handle spin bowling—a skill noted by New Zealand head coach Gary Stead.

In August 2023, Abbas was selected for New Zealand A in a series against Australia A, signaling his rise through the ranks. His international breakthrough came in March 2025, when he earned a maiden call-up to the New Zealand ODI squad.