After Pakistan’s disastrous end in the Champions Trophy 2025, their struggles continued as the National Team suffered another defeat in the first T20I against New Zealand in Christchurch.
The Kiwis won the toss and opted to field first, a decision that proved wise as Pakistan lost three early wickets in no time, scoring just 1 run in 2.4 overs.
Middle-order batter Khushdil Shah was the only player to show some intent, hitting three massive sixes before falling for 32 runs. Captain Agha Salman contributed 18 runs, but unfortunately, no other batsman managed to score 20 runs. This disappointing performance resulted in Pakistan being all out for just 91 runs in 18.4 overs.
In response, New Zealand chased down the target effortlessly, finishing at 92 for 1 in just 10.1 overs. Opening batter Tim Seifert was the standout performer, smashing a quickfire 44 runs off 29 balls, while Abrar Ahmed was the only bowler to claim a wicket.
The current situation, along with Pakistan’s poor performance as a first-time host in the 2025 Champions Trophy, raises significant questions about the state of cricket in the country. What went wrong this time? Is this one of the worst downfalls in their history? How long will this humiliating performance continue?
It should be noted that the Green Shirts will be without their star players Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Fakhar Zaman, and Saim Ayub, as they are not part of the announced squad for this series.
Additionally, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is providing opportunities for young players to showcase their skills and prove themselves for the future.
On the other side, the New Zealand team is also missing key players, including their great batter Kane Williamson and left-arm off-spinner Mitch Santner, as well as other notable players who are not included in the announced squad.
Meanwhile, the 2nd T20I of the five-match series will be played tomorrow in Dunedin. The Green Shirts are hoping to secure a win to gain some confidence and forget their previous poor performances.
Pakistan’s Struggles Persist as Kiwis Dominate First T20I
