New Zealand delivered an impressive performance against Pakistan, taking the victory by 9 wickets during the first T20I at Hagley Oval, Christchurch, on March 16, 2025. After winning the toss and opting to bowl first, New Zealand's bowlers struck early, dismantling the Pakistani batting lineup rapidly. The match began ominously for Pakistan as they suffered the loss of their first wicket without scoring any runs.
Kyle Jamieson and Jacob Duffy proved effective from the outset, dismissing Mohammad Haris and Hasan Nawaz for ducks. Following their early breakthroughs, the pressure was on Pakistan, who found themselves at 14/4 by the end of the powerplay.
Upon returning to the national squad after disappointing performances at the T20 World Cup, Shadab Khan was expected to play a pivotal role for Pakistan. Unfortunately, his efforts were cut short when he fell for just 3 runs. Jamieson's delivery aimed at creating width proved fatal as Shadab attempted to cut but didn't keep the ball low. Tim Robinson took advantage of the situation, pulling off a stunning catch reminiscent of Glenn Phillips’ famous grabbing moves seen during the 2025 Champions Trophy.
After Shadab’s dismissal, hopes for recovery lay with Agha Salman and Khushdil Shah. Khushdil managed to strike Pakistan’s first six of the match—but it was followed shortly by the dismissal of Salman for just 5 runs, taken out by Ish Sodhi as he bowled him out. Jacob Duffy returned to influence the innings again, sending Khushdil Shah back to the pavilion after he had labored to 32 runs off 30 balls.
The Pakistani innings continued to plummet as Jahanad Khan, who had received some lifelines, could only muster 17 runs before being dismissed by Jacob Duffy. Pakistan’s batting collapse culminated with Shaheen Afridi and Abrar Ahmed both being dismissed for zero runs, leaving Pakistan bowled out for the dismal total of 91 runs within just 18.4 overs.
On the chase, New Zealand's openers made short work of the target. Finn Allen and Tim Seifert put together a solid platform, combining for 53 runs during the powerplay, effectively sealing the game early. Allen remained unbeaten on 29, and Robinson, who scored 18 runs, ensured New Zealand crossed the finish line comfortably by the 11th over. This comprehensive win grants New Zealand a 1-0 lead in the five-match series.
The second T20I is scheduled to take place on March 18 at the University Oval in Dunedin, which will offer Pakistan the chance to regroup and redefine their strategy against the Blackcaps. With both teams eager to prove their mettle, cricket fans are eagerly anticipating the next chapter of this exciting series.