NZ vs PAK 1st T20I Highlights: On March 16, 2025, Pakistan played against New Zealand in the first T20I match of their series in Christchurch. The match ended in a disappointing 9-wicket loss for Pakistan. Pakistan managed to score only 91 runs, which New Zealand easily chased down in 10.2 overs. Pakistan’s decision to leave out star players Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan failed, as their new lineup struggled badly. This article explains the key highlights of the match, important moments, and what went wrong for Pakistan.
What Happened in Christchurch?
New Zealand completely dominated the match from the beginning. Pakistan batted first and were bowled out for just 91 runs in 18.2 overs. New Zealand’s Jacob Duffy was the star bowler, taking 4 wickets for only 16 runs, causing Pakistan’s top-order collapse. Saim Ayub was the only batter who showed some resistance, scoring 27 runs off 21 balls.
In response, New Zealand’s Finn Allen smashed 41 runs off 23 balls, helping his team chase the target with ease. Pakistan’s new captain, Salman Ali Agha, couldn’t prevent the defeat. The match clearly showed that Pakistan’s batting lineup lacked depth without their experienced players.
Key Stats from NZ vs PAK 1st T20I
- Match Date: March 16, 2025
- Venue: Hagley Oval, Christchurch
- Pakistan’s Total: 91 all out (18.2 overs)
- New Zealand’s Total: 92/1 (10.2 overs)
- Top Performers:
- Jacob Duffy (NZ): 4 wickets for 16 runs
- Finn Allen (NZ): 41 runs off 23 balls
- Saim Ayub (PAK): 27 runs off 21 balls
- Nathan Smith (NZ): 2 wickets for 17 runs
- Result: New Zealand won by 9 wickets
- Source: ESPNcricinfo
Why Were Babar and Rizwan Dropped?
Pakistan decided to leave out two of their top T20I players, Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, before the series. Since 2020, Babar had scored 2,024 runs with an average of 42.16, while Rizwan had scored 2,306 runs with an average of 50.13. The team management wanted to try fresh talent after a poor Champions Trophy performance.
New players like Hasan Nawaz and Abdul Samad were given a chance, but they failed to impress. Hasan Nawaz scored 19 runs, and Abdul Samad made only 10 runs. With four matches remaining, Pakistan must find a solution quickly.
Pakistan’s Batting Collapse Explained
Pakistan’s low score of 91 runs reflected their panic. Jacob Duffy’s accurate swing bowling dismissed their openers early. Hasan Nawaz faced 18 balls for 19 runs before getting out. Abdul Samad managed just 10 runs from 12 balls, while Omair Bin Yousuf struggled with 3 runs off 8 balls. Pakistan’s batters couldn’t handle the pressure, and New Zealand’s bowlers exploited their mistakes by consistently bowling in the right areas.
New Zealand’s Key Players
- Jacob Duffy: Took 4 wickets for 16 runs in 4 overs, dismantling Pakistan’s top order.
- Finn Allen: Scored 41 runs off 23 balls, ensuring a quick chase.
- Nathan Smith: Picked up 2 wickets for 17 runs, applying pressure on Pakistan’s middle order.
- Michael Bracewell (Captain): Controlled the game with 1 wicket for 14 runs in 3 overs.
- Tim Robinson: Scored 29* off 25 balls, providing steady support to Finn Allen.
How New Zealand Took Control
New Zealand didn’t need their strongest team to win. Even without Kane Williamson, they dominated Pakistan. Jacob Duffy’s brilliant spell set the tone, while Finn Allen’s explosive batting finished the match early. Captain Michael Bracewell managed his bowlers smartly, ensuring New Zealand maintained control throughout the match. Pakistan’s inexperienced lineup couldn’t find answers to New Zealand’s well-organized tactics.
What’s Next for Pakistan?
Pakistan still has four more matches in the series to recover. Captain Salman Ali Agha is now under pressure after his tough debut. Vice-captain Shadab Khan failed with the bat, scoring 0, but he might still play a key role with the ball. Pakistan’s management must decide whether to recall experienced players like Babar and Rizwan or continue with the new squad, hoping they improve quickly. Meanwhile, New Zealand is likely to maintain their aggressive approach in the next game.
Conclusion
The NZ vs PAK 1st T20I highlights show how Pakistan’s risky decision to drop Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan ended in disaster. New Zealand capitalized with strong bowling and aggressive batting. Jacob Duffy’s brilliant spell and Finn Allen’s explosive performance were the highlights. Pakistan’s poor total of 91 runs leaves them with serious concerns moving forward. While their attempt to refresh the squad was bold, it ended with a harsh reality check. With four more matches left, Pakistan must regroup fast to avoid further embarrassment.
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