New Zealand made a dominant start to their five-match T20I series against Pakistan, cruising to a comprehensive nine-wicket victory at Hagley Oval, Christchurch. (Highlights | More Cricket News)
The visitors, still reeling from their early exit in the Champions Trophy, put on a dismal batting display, folding for just 91 runs.
Kyle Jamieson (3/8) and Jacob Duffy (4/14) ripped through Pakistan’s fragile lineup, ensuring the tourists never got going. Khushdil Shah’s 32 was the only notable contribution, as the rest of the batting order collapsed under relentless pressure from New Zealand’s pacers.
Chasing a modest target of 92, New Zealand wasted no time. Tim Seifert’s aggressive approach, coupled with Finn Allen’s steady hand, ensured there were no hiccups. The hosts wrapped up the chase with ease, reaching 92/1 in just 10.1 overs to take a 1-0 lead in the series.
Pakistan have a lot to ponder ahead of the second T20I. Their batting woes continue to haunt them, and with a rejigged squad missing senior names, the pressure is on Salman Agha’s men to bounce back quickly. Meanwhile, Michael Bracewell’s New Zealand side made an emphatic statement, showing their depth despite the absence of several IPL-bound players.
New Zealand Vs Pakistan, 1st T20I: Toss Update
New Zealand won the toss and opted to bowl first against Pakistan.
New Zealand Vs Pakistan, 1st T20I: Playing XIs
New Zealand (Playing XI): Tim Seifert, Finn Allen, Tim Robinson, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Hay(w), Michael Bracewell(c), Zakary Foulkes, Kyle Jamieson, Ish Sodhi, Jacob Duffy
Pakistan (Playing XI): Mohammad Haris(w), Hasan Nawaz, Salman Agha(c), Irfan Khan, Shadab Khan, Abdul Samad, Khushdil Shah, Jahandad Khan, Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Ali, Abrar Ahmed
