Boult's four-wicket haul helps Kiwis beat Pak in opening ODI

Trent Boult claimed a four-wicket haul to help New Zealand beat Pakistan by convincing 70 runs in the opening ODI of the three-match series here at the Basin Reserve on Monday.

In reply to New Zealand's innings of 280-8, Pakistan were bundled out for 210 runs with four overs remaining despite some resistance by Babar Azam (62) and veteran batsman Mohammad Hafeez (42).

For the hosts, Boult finished with four for 40 while Grant Elliott also bagged three wickets.

Corey Anderson, Mitchell Santner and Kane Williamson also chipped in with a wicket each.

Earlier, opting to bat first, Henry Nicholls smashed seven boundaries in his brilliant knock of 82 to guide his side to a modest 281-run target for Pakistan.

Mitchell Santner (48) and Matt Henry (unbeaten 48) were other notable figures for New Zealand.

With the win, the Williamson-led side have now taken a 1-0 lead in the series and will play their next match at January 28 in Napier.