Pakistan tour of New Zealand 2025. Pak vs Nz 1st T20 Highlights. Pakistan kicked off their tour of New Zealand with the first T20I at Hagley Oval on 16March 2025. Under the leadership of Salman Ali Agha the visitors aimed for a strong start against a strong New Zealand side.
Before the match Pakistan’s batting coach Mohammad Yousuf presented T20I caps to three debutants Hassan Nawaz, Abdul Samad and Mohammad Ali. Meanwhile New Zealand’s Michael Bracewell leading the team won the toss and opted to bowl first.
Pakistan’s opening pair Mohammad Haris and debutant Hassan Nawaz stepped in to start the innings. However New Zealand’s bowlers made an immediate impact. Kyle Jamieson bowled a brilliant wicket-maiden first over dismissing Mohammad Haris for a duck. Shortly after Jacob Duffy removed Hassan Nawaz who also departed for a two-ball duck.
New Zealand’s pacers kept relentless pressure on Pakistan. Within the powerplay Pakistan lost four wickets for just 14 runs. Irfan Khan Niazi (1) fell early and Shadab Khan (3) followed soon after. At this point Pakistan was in deep trouble at 14/4 after six overs.
Despite the shaky start Salman Ali Agha and Khushdil Shah tried to steady the innings. They built the highest partnership of 46 runs attempting to rescue Pakistan from collapse. Khushdil Shah played a crucial knock scoring 32 runs with three sixes making him Pakistan’s top scorer. Salman Ali Agha (18) and Jahandad Khan (17) were the only other batters to reach double figures.
However wickets continued to tumble as Pakistan struggled to build momentum. Eventually the entire team was bowled out for 91 runs in 18.4 overs. New Zealand’s bowling attack was outstanding. Jacob Duffy dominated with 4 wickets. Ish Sodhi contributed with 2 wickets ensuring Pakistan never recovered. Pakistan’s batting performance left much to be desired setting New Zealand an easy target of 92 runs.
Chasing a modest total Tim Seifert and Finn Allen opened for New Zealand. Right from the start Seifert took control of the innings showcasing his attacking intent. Seifert smashed 44 runs off 29 balls including seven fours and a six. Despite his quick start Abrar Ahmed dismissed Seifert in his first over providing Pakistan with a breakthrough.
However with such a low target New Zealand remained firmly in control. Their batters continued to score freely ensuring there were no major hiccups in the chase.
New Zealand’s clinical bowling and aggressive batting led them to an easy victory in the first T20I. Pakistan’s batting collapse proved costly as they failed to put up a competitive total.
With this win New Zealand took a 1-0 lead in the series. Pakistan will need to regroup quickly and come back stronger in the next game. This is all from the Pak vs Nz 1st T20 Highlights.
Kyle Jamieson receives man of the match award on his outstanding performance.
