New Zealand vs Pakistan, 1st ODI - Live Cricket Score, Commentary

Colin Munro seems to be in this mood quite consistently these days. Another fast start from the left-hander has helped New Zealand off to a brisk start. He brings up a blistering fifty in the process, but is soon out caught off Hasan Ali. Goes for 58 off just 35, and Pakistan will be relieved.

Steady start for NZ:

Guptill and Munro have put on contrasting starts for the home team; the latter has been trying to go hammer and tongs while Guptill looks to get in for the long haul. The result? A decent start for NZ. 23/0

Toss

Pakistan have won the toss and will field first. Understandable given rain might play a part in the game later in the day.

Prelude:

Not a lot of times Pakistan enter a series against New Zealand in New Zealand standing a serious chance. Afterall, since 2001, Pakistan have won just one One-Day International series in New Zealand have conceded four of them with the last two series in 2014-15 and 2015-16 resulting in whitewashes.

In the last 20 ODIs in New Zealand for Pakistan, they've managed only six wins. And yet, when Sarfraz Ahmed spoke with hope ahead of the tour, there was a reason for that. Since their Champions Trophy triumph last year, Pakistan haven't lost a single ODI. The win against India in the final and then the series whitewash against Sri Lanka meant they won all their six games since.

Hasan Ali's meteoric rise and Mohammad Amir's return to the fold gives Sarfraz the belief that they can keep New Zealand batsmen in check in tough conditions. Shadab Khan's ability to trouble the batsmen gives the attack the edge while Rumman Raees and Faheem Ashraf will be expected to play support cast.

And concern for Pakistan, like it has been for a few years, is their batting. Fakhar Zaman's ability to deliver in tough conditions is in doubt while too much of burden is on Mohammad Hafeez and Shoaib Malik. Babar Azam too will have to play a key role if Pakistan are to stand a chance.

In Sarfraz, Pakistan have found a shrewd leader and one thing remains clear that sub-par performances on the field, from the bowlers or batsmen, won't be accepted.

New Zealand have warmed up for the series with a series against Windies. Colin Munro has hit form while Martin Guptill is back in the squad. Kane Williamson stays key as always, while Tom Latham has settled into the middle order fairly quickly. The hosts boast of a formidable attack and go into the series with a slight advantage because of the familiarity of conditions.

The quick turnaround after the Twenty20 International series will ensure New Zealand are able to continue to momentum. And yet, they'll be well aware of the Pakistan challenge and will guard against any complacency.