Pakistan Stumbles as New Zealand Seals Easy Victory
New Zealand delivered a dominant performance in the first T20I against Pakistan at Hagley Oval, Christchurch, dismantling the visitors with a superb bowling display before sealing a nine-wicket win in just 11 overs.
Pakistan’s Batting Collapse
After winning the toss, New Zealand opted to bowl first, and their pacers immediately put Pakistan on the back foot.
Kyle Jamieson and Jacob Duffy struck early, dismissing Mohammad Haris and debutant Hasan Nawaz for ducks.
Irfan Khan Niazi followed soon after, falling to Jamieson for just one run.
Shadab Khan tried to stabilize the innings but was dismissed for three runs, thanks to a sensational diving catch by Tim Robinson at backward point.
By the end of the powerplay, Pakistan was reeling at 14/4.
Khushdil Shah’s Resistance & Pakistan’s Collapse
Despite a few dropped chances, Pakistan’s batting never gained momentum.
Khushdil Shah (32 off 30 balls) hit the first six of the match off Ish Sodhi, but Sodhi struck back, removing Agha Salman soon after.
Duffy returned to dismiss Khushdil, further dismantling Pakistan’s hopes.
The tailenders failed to contribute, and Duffy cleaned up Shaheen Afridi and Abrar Ahmed to bowl out Pakistan for just 91 runs in 18.4 overs.
New Zealand’s Comfortable Chase
Chasing 92, New Zealand’s openers Finn Allen and Tim Seifert made quick work of the target.
The duo smashed 53 runs in the powerplay, taking the game out of Pakistan’s reach.
Allen remained unbeaten on 29, while Tim Robinson contributed 18, as New Zealand chased the target in just 11 overs with nine wickets in hand.
Series Outlook
With New Zealand leading 1-0, Pakistan will need a major comeback in the second T20I in Dunedin to keep the series alive.
🏏 Can Pakistan bounce back in the next match? Share your thoughts below! 👇
