Pak vs NZ: Rain Delays Toss in Second T20I

DUNEDIN: Rain has delayed the toss ahead of the second T20I between Pakistan and New Zealand at the University Oval in Logan Park, Dunedin, on Tuesday. The toss was initially scheduled for 1:45 PM local time, with the match set to commence at 2:15 PM.

Pakistan, currently touring New Zealand for a five-match T20I series, faced a rough start after a comprehensive nine-wicket defeat in the opening game at Christchurch on Sunday.

The first match highlighted Pakistan’s batting weaknesses, with debutants Hasan Nawaz and Abdul Samad failing to make an impact, scoring 0 and 7, respectively. Apart from Khushdil Shah’s 32-run contribution, the batting lineup struggled against New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack.

Pakistan, batting first, was dismantled by New Zealand pacers Jacob Duffy and Kyle Jamieson, who reduced them to 1/3 within the first 2.2 overs. The situation worsened when vice-captain Shadab Khan departed for just three runs, leaving Pakistan reeling at 11/4 in 4.4 overs.

Skipper Salman Ali Agha and all-rounder Khushdil Shah attempted a recovery with a 46-run partnership for the fifth wicket. However, Agha fell for 18 off 20 balls in the 12th over, followed by Shah in the next over after scoring a 30-ball 32, including three sixes.

The batting collapse continued, and Pakistan was eventually bowled out for a meager 91 in 18.4 overs. New Zealand, in response, comfortably chased down the target, losing just one wicket and reaching 92 in just 10.2 overs with 59 balls to spare.

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Following the heavy defeat, Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha acknowledged the team’s subpar performance and the need to regroup ahead of the second match.

“It was difficult; we weren’t up to the mark, but we need to regather (ahead of Dunedin). They bowled really well, in great areas, and there was a bit of seam movement as well. We will sit down, have a chat, and think about the next game,” Agha stated in the post-match press conference, admitting the loss was hard to accept.

Despite the disappointing performance, Agha expressed confidence in the team’s young players, emphasizing their potential to improve with experience.

“We had three debutants; the more games they play, the more they’ll learn. The new ball does a bit in New Zealand, but we’ve got good bowlers, and we’ll look to do well in the next match,” he added.

Following the poor performance in Christchurch, Pakistan may consider changes to their playing XI, particularly in the middle order, to strengthen their lineup.