Pakistan Registers Fifth-Lowest T20I Score
Christchurch, March 16, 2025 – New Zealand delivered a crushing defeat to Pakistan in the first T20I of the five-match series, securing a commanding nine-wicket victory. Pakistan’s batting lineup collapsed spectacularly, managing only 91 runs before being bowled out in 18.4 overs, giving the Kiwis an easy target to chase. With this victory, New Zealand takes a 1-0 lead in the series.
Pakistan’s Batting Collapse: A Nightmare Performance
Winning the toss, New Zealand elected to field first at Hagley Oval, Christchurch, a decision that proved to be a masterstroke as Pakistan’s batting lineup crumbled under pressure. The Pakistani openers failed to provide a stable start, with Mohammad Haris and Hasan Nawaz both departing for ducks in the very first over. The team’s struggles continued as middle-order batsman Irfan Khan, who scored just one run, also failed to stabilize the innings.
Pakistan’s batting frailties were further exposed as experienced all-rounder Shadab Khan was dismissed for a mere three runs. Captain Agha Salman attempted to anchor the innings with a resistance-filled 18, but wickets kept tumbling at the other end. The only notable contribution came from Khushdil Shah, who managed a fighting 32 before falling to New Zealand’s relentless bowling attack. Other batters, including Abdus Samad (7), Jahandad Khan (17), Shaheen Shah Afridi (1), and Abrar Ahmed (2), failed to make any significant impact.
Pakistan’s innings ended at a paltry 91, marking one of their worst T20I performances. Only two players—Khushdil Shah and Agha Salman—managed to reach double figures.
New Zealand’s Bowling Masterclass
New Zealand’s bowlers executed their game plan flawlessly, dismantling Pakistan’s lineup with surgical precision. Kyle Jamieson led the charge with an outstanding spell, claiming three wickets while conceding just eight runs in his four overs. Jacob Duffy was the most successful bowler, picking up four wickets, while Ish Sodhi and Zak Foulkes also contributed with two and one wicket, respectively.
A Comfortable Chase for the Kiwis
Chasing a meager target of 92, New Zealand dominated from the outset, utilizing their home advantage effectively. Despite losing Tim Seifert for 44, the Kiwis faced no real trouble in reaching the target. Finn Allen (29*) and Tim Robinson (18*) guided the team to victory, completing the chase in just 10.1 overs with 59 balls to spare.
Abrar Ahmed was the only Pakistani bowler to make an impact, claiming the lone wicket of Seifert. However, his efforts were not enough to put New Zealand under any significant pressure.
Pakistan Registers Another Unwanted Record
Pakistan’s total of 91 runs is now the fifth-lowest score they have ever posted in T20 international cricket. The Men in Green have previously recorded lower scores on four occasions:
- 74 all out vs Australia in Dubai (2012)
- 82 all out vs West Indies in Dhaka (2014)
- 83 all out vs India in Mirpur (2016)
- 89 all out vs England in Cardiff (2010)
With this latest failure, Pakistan has now added another unwanted record to their history books.
Looking Ahead: Second T20I on March 18
With a crushing defeat in the opening match, Pakistan must quickly regroup and address their batting weaknesses before the second T20I, scheduled for March 18. The team will need a stronger approach and significant improvements to stand a chance against an in-form New Zealand side.
Pakistan Squad for the Series:
- Mohammad Haris
- Hasan Nawaz
- Agha Salman (Captain)
- Irfan Khan
- Shadab Khan
- Abdus Samad
- Khushdil Shah
- Jahandad Khan
- Shaheen Shah Afridi
- Abrar Ahmed
- Mohammad Ali
New Zealand Squad for the Series:
- Tim Seifert
- Finn Allen
- Tim Robinson
- Mark Chapman
- Daryl Mitchell
- Michael Bracewell (Captain)
- Zak Foulkes
- Kyle Jamieson
- Ish Sodhi
- Jacob Duffy
Pakistan’s dismal batting performance in the first T20I has raised serious concerns about their ability to compete against a formidable New Zealand side. With four matches remaining in the series, the Men in Green must regroup and find a way to counter the Kiwi bowling attack. Meanwhile, New Zealand will look to maintain their dominance and extend their series lead in the upcoming matches.
