Pakistan bowlers were unable to contain the power of New Zealand batting and despite entertaining contributions by Babar Azam's (57) and Saim Ayub (34), the visitors were defeated in the opening match of the 5-match T20I series against New Zealand.

By PakPassion Staff (12th January, 2024)

In the first T20 match at Auckland's Eden Park, New Zealand secured a decisive 46-run victory over Pakistan. The Black Caps amassed an impressive total of 226-8, driven by Daryl Mitchell's explosive 61 from 27 balls and Kane Williamson's steady 57 off 42. This score marked their third highest in Eden Park and the fifth highest in their T20 history. Pakistan's bowlers Abbas Afridi and Shaheen Shah Afridi each took three wickets, but it wasn't enough to contain New Zealand's aggressive batting.

Pakistan's response, despite a solid start, was halted at 180 all out in 18 overs. Babar Azam's 57 off 35 stood out, but Tim Southee's exceptional bowling (4-25 off 4 overs) played a crucial role in dismantling Pakistan's batting lineup. The highlight of the New Zealand fielding was Ish Sodhi's remarkable one-handed catch off his own bowling, contributing significantly to Pakistan's collapse.

The Black Caps' batting was largely consistent, barring Devon Conway's early dismissal. Finn Allen's quick 35 off 15, which included 24 runs in a single over from Afridi, set a strong foundation. Williamson, although slow to start, eventually accelerated his scoring, reaching his half-century in 40 balls. Mitchell's powerful hitting in the later stages propelled the team's total, though he was eventually caught by Saim Ayub.

Pakistan's chase started promisingly, reaching 29-0 in two overs. However, crucial wickets, including a run-out by Adam Milne and catches by Devon Conway and Williamson, shifted the momentum. Sodhi's catch to dismiss Fakhar was a turning point, leaving Pakistan at 109-3 at the halfway mark. Babar Azam's effort to accelerate the score in the 15th over was notable, but Pakistan's hopes dwindled after his dismissal at 57 runs.