Since arriving in Pakistan, Glenn Phillips has been in outstanding form, scoring 215 runs off 162 balls in four ODIs while being dismissed only once. That lone dismissal came in New Zealand’s Champions Trophy opener against the hosts, but not before Phillips smashed 61 off 39 balls. His knock helped New Zealand cross 300 on a pitch where scoring was tough early on.
What’s behind his success? “I’m just really clear at the moment, seeing the ball well, and staying still at the point of contact,” Phillips said after New Zealand’s 60-run win in Karachi. “I haven’t always got it right in the past, but I’ve found a good rhythm for now.”
Phillips had earlier scored 106*, 28*, and 20* in the tri-series against Pakistan and South Africa, which served as preparation for the tournament. In this match, he joined a well-set Tom Latham at 191 for 4 in the 38th over, with New Zealand’s run rate around five per over. The duo then added 125 off just 74 balls, pushing New Zealand to 320. Their acceleration helped the team score 113 in the final 10 overs, the second-most in the death overs of a Champions Trophy innings.
Why was scoring difficult before their partnership? “The pitch played differently each time we’ve been in Karachi,” Phillips explained. “Pacers were harder to face during the day when the ball had variable bounce. The Pakistan bowlers made it tough for us early on.”
New Zealand now face Bangladesh in Rawalpindi on February 24 before heading to Dubai to play India on March 2. With more challenges ahead, adaptability will be key to their semifinal hopes, and Phillips’ form will be crucial to their campaign.
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