New Zealand Defeats Pakistan by Nine Wickets in First T20I

New Zealand secured a commanding nine-wicket victory over Pakistan in the first T20I at Hagley Oval, Christchurch, taking a 1-0 lead in the five-match series. Pakistan struggled with the bat, collapsing to 91 all out within 18.4 overs, with Khushdil Shah being the top scorer at 32 runs. The Kiwi bowlers, led by Kyle Jamieson and Jacob Duffy, dominated the Pakistani lineup, with Jamieson taking three wickets and Duffy claiming four. In response, New Zealand chased down the target in just 10.1 overs, with Tim Seifert scoring 44 runs to lead the way. The match marked a difficult start for Pakistan, who are adapting to new leadership following the absence of former captain Babar Azam and wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan. The second T20I is scheduled for Tuesday in Dunedin.