Christchurch, March 16, 2025: New Zealand dominated Pakistan in the opening T20I of the five-match series, securing a comprehensive nine-wicket victory at Hagley Oval on Sunday. The hosts outclassed Pakistan in all departments, with a disciplined bowling display followed by a commanding batting performance.
Chasing a modest 91-run target, New Zealand’s openers Tim Seifert and Finn Allen gave their team a flying start, amassing 53 runs inside the powerplay. Seifert looked set for a half-century but fell for 44 off 29 deliveries, dismissed by Abrar Ahmed in the sixth over.
With only 38 runs needed, Tim Robinson joined Allen and comfortably steered New Zealand to victory in the 11th over, handing them a 1-0 lead in the series. Allen remained unbeaten on 29, while Robinson contributed 18 runs.
Pakistan’s bowling attack failed to make an impact, with Abrar Ahmed being the sole wicket-taker.
Put in to bat first, Pakistan’s innings crumbled against a disciplined Kiwi bowling attack, managing just 91 runs before being bowled out. Pakistan’s top order collapsed within the first five overs, leaving the team reeling at 11-4. Kyle Jamieson struck early, removing Mohammad Haris (0) and Shadab Khan (3).
Jacob Duffy dismissed debutant Hasan Nawaz (0) and Irfan Khan (1), deepening Pakistan’s troubles. A brief 46-run partnership between Agha Salman (18) and Khushdil Shah (32) offered some resistance, but wickets kept tumbling. Ish Sodhi ended Agha’s stay, while Duffy removed Khushdil to further dent Pakistan’s hopes. Lower-order batters Abdul Samad (7), Jahandad Khan (17), and Shaheen Afridi (1) failed to contribute meaningfully.
Pakistan was bowled out in 18.5 overs, falling just short of 100 runs. Jacob Duffy stole the show with 4 wickets for 18 runs while Kyle Jamieson picked up 3 wickets in a fiery spell. Ish Sodhi claimed 2 scalps, while Zakary Foulkes chipped in with one.
With a convincing win, New Zealand takes a 1-0 lead, while Pakistan faces a must-win situation in the second T20I to bounce back in the series.
