March 16, 2025: New Zealand dominated Pakistan in the first T20I of the series, crushing them by nine wickets in a one-sided encounter on Sunday. The Kiwis now lead the five-match T20I series 1-0 after bundling Pakistan out for just 91 runs and chasing down the target in a mere 10.1 overs.
New Zealand won the toss and chose to field first. The Pakistani batters were immediately under pressure as pacers Jacob Duffy and Kyle Jamieson wreaked havoc, reducing Pakistan to a shocking 11/4 in just 4.4 overs. Key players such as Mohammad Haris (0) and Shadab Khan (6) were dismissed cheaply, leaving the visitors in deep trouble.
Skipper Salman Agha (18 off 20 balls) and Khushdil Shah (32 off 30 balls) tried to build a partnership, adding 46 runs together. However, their resistance was short-lived. New Zealand's spinners, particularly Ish Sodhi, played a crucial role in the collapse. Pakistan were eventually bowled out for a mere 91 runs in 18.4 overs. Jamieson (3/8 in 4 overs) and Duffy (4/14 in 3.4 overs) were the standout bowlers for the Kiwis, while Sodhi (2/27) and Zakary Foulkes (1/11) also impressed with the ball.
Pakistan's total of 91 is their lowest ever score in New Zealand, surpassing their previous record of 101 runs in Wellington back in 2016.
Chasing such a low target, New Zealand came out with intent, as openers Finn Allen and Tim Seifert took full advantage of the powerplay, racing to 53/1 by the end of the six overs. Seifert made an impactful 44 off 29 balls, which included seven fours and a six before being dismissed by spinner Abrar.
Allen (29* off 17 balls) and Tim Robinson (18* off 15 balls) took New Zealand to an easy victory, reaching the target in just 59 balls with nine wickets remaining.
Kyle Jamieson was awarded the 'Player of the Match' for his brilliant spell of bowling, which had a huge impact on Pakistan’s early collapse. The Kiwis will look to extend their dominance in the series as the two teams prepare for the next encounter.
Last Updated on March 16, 2025 by Disha Rojhe
