New Zealand crush Pakistan in T20 opener

New Zealand thrashed Pakistan by nine wickets in the opening T20 of the series in Christchurch.

Pakistan were bowled out for 91 at the Hagley Oval – their lowest T20 total in New Zealand – before the hosts raced to their target with 9.5 overs to spare.

In Pakistan’s first game under new captain Salman Agha, they lost both openers – Mohammad Haris and Hasan Nawaz – for ducks, were 3-3 after three overs and 14-4 after the six-over powerplay, and only three batters reached double figures.

Man of the match Kyle Jamieson took three of the first four wickets on his way to figures of 3-8, while new-ball partner Jacob Duffy claimed 4-14.

Khushdil Shah, who hit 32 off 30 balls, was the only batter to make more than 18.

Opener Tim Seifert propelled New Zealand’s chase with 44 off 29 deliveries before Finn Allen and Tim Robinson wrapped up victory thanks to an unbroken stand of 39.

The second T20 of the five-match series takes place in Dunedin on Tuesday.

Pakistan’s previous lowest T20 score in New Zealand came in their most recent meeting in January 2024, when they were bowled out for 92 in pursuit of 135 in Christchurch. (BBC)