Debutants shine in New Zealand's victory in Christchurch Test

Christchurch [New Zealand], Nov. 20 (ANI): New Zealand Skipper Kane Williamson along with debutant opener Jeet Raval displayed a focused batting performance to steer their side to a comfortable eight-wicket win over Pakistan in the opening Test of the two-match series played at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch on Sunday. Raval finished unbeaten on 36 in the second innings, besides his first innings score of 55. Other debutant, Colin de Grandhomme, who took seven wickets in the Test, was declared Man of the Match. Grandhomme's first innings wicket tally of 6 for 4 was also a New Zealand record on debut. Earlier, resuming the day at 129/7, Pakistan were bowled out for 171, thus setting up a target of 105 for the hosts. Overnight batsman Sohail Khan came out with the intent of scoring quick runs as Pakistan led by 62 with only three wickets in hand. Sohail, along with Shafiq shared a 50-plus run-stand for the eighth wicket. Chasing the target, New Zealand lost early wickets on the fourth morning. However, Raval (36*) and Williamson (61) added 85 for the second wicket to ensure victory for the Black Caps. This was New Zealand's first victory in their last six Tests, having drawn the first match with South Africa in August before losing the second then being swept 0-3 by India in October. The second and final Test will begin on November 25 in Hamilton. (ANI)