New Zealand secured a commanding 9-wicket victory over Pakistan in the opening match of the five-game T20 series at Hagley Oval on Sunday, taking a 1-0 lead.
After being put to bat first, Pakistan struggled against New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack and were dismissed for just 91 runs in 18.4 overs. Kyle Jamieson led the charge, taking crucial early wickets that dismantled Pakistan’s top order.
Pakistan’s batting woes began early, losing three wickets with just one run on the board. Mohammad Haris departed for a duck, while Irfan Khan managed only a single before falling to Jamieson. Khushdil Shah was the top scorer with 32 runs, followed by captain Salman Ali Agha with 18 and Jahandad Khan with 17. Other batters failed to make a significant impact, with Abdul Samad scoring 7, Shadab Khan 3, and Abrar Ahmed 2. Openers Mohammad Haris and Hasan Nawaz failed to open their accounts.
New Zealand’s bowlers delivered an outstanding performance, with Jacob Duffy leading the attack by claiming four wickets. Kyle Jamieson took three, while Ish Sodhi picked up two and Zac Foulkes dismissed one batter.
Chasing a modest target, New Zealand’s Tim Seifert and Finn Allen dominated from the start, forming a solid 53-run partnership in the powerplay. Their aggressive batting ensured New Zealand reached the target in just 11 overs, sealing an emphatic win.
The second T20I is scheduled for Tuesday, where Pakistan will look to bounce back in the series.
Pakistan Playing XI: Salman Ali Agha (c), Hasan Nawaz, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Shadab Khan, Abdul Samad, Khushdil Shah, Jahandad Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammad Ali, Abrar Ahmed.
New Zealand Playing XI: Tim Seifert, Finn Allen, Tim Robinson, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Mitch Hay (wk), Michael Bracewell (c), Zac Foulkes, Kyle Jamieson, Ish Sodhi, Jacob Duffy.
