In the first T20 match played at Hagley Oval, New Zealand secured a convincing 9-wicket victory over Pakistan, taking a 1-0 lead in the five-match series. Kyle Jamieson (3/8) and Jacob Duffy (4/14) were the stars of the match, dismantling Pakistan’s batting lineup for just 91 runs. Tim Seifert (44) and Finn Allen (29*) then led New Zealand to an easy victory in just 10.1 overs. Kyle Jamieson was named the ‘Player of the Match’ for his outstanding bowling performance. His figures of 3/8 in 4 overs played a key role in dismantling Pakistan’s batting order and setting up New Zealand’s comprehensive victory.
Pakistan’s Batting Collapse
Pakistan’s innings started poorly after losing the toss and being put in to bat. Shaheen Afridi and Babar Azam (4) were dismissed in the first over itself, setting the tone for a disastrous batting performance. Mohammad Rizwan (8) also failed to provide any stability at the crease.
Salman Ali Agha (18) and Khushdil Shah (32) tried to rebuild the innings, but New Zealand’s bowlers kept the pressure on. Jacob Duffy was lethal, taking 4 wickets for just 14 runs in 3.4 overs. Kyle Jamieson bowled an equally impressive spell, claiming 3 wickets for just 8 runs in his 4 overs. Ish Sodhi also chipped in with 2 wickets for 27 runs in his 4 overs.
Pakistan’s batting lineup crumbled under pressure and was bowled out for just 91 runs in 18.4 overs.
Dominant Batting by New Zealand
Chasing a modest target of 92, New Zealand got off to a strong start with Tim Seifert and Finn Allen putting on a 57-run partnership for the first wicket. Tim Seifert played aggressively, scoring 44 runs off 29 balls, including 6 fours and a six.
After Seifert’s dismissal, Finn Allen (29*) and Tim Robinson (18*) ensured there were no further hiccups as New Zealand reached the target comfortably in 10.1 overs.
