PAK vs NZ-Pakistan's Horrendous Beginning in New Zealand - Men in Green Witness Shameful Collapse in First T20I

Pakistan's tour of New Zealand started on a disastrous note as they were bowled out for a mere 91 runs in the first T20I of the five-match series at Christchurch's Hagley Oval on March 16. The sorry performance created unwanted history for the Men in Green as they posted their lowest ever T20I total against New Zealand. Before that, their worst total against the Black Caps was 101 in 2016, in Wellington. Moreover, it was also Pakistan's lowest fifth in T20I history as well as the lowest since their 83 when they were bowled out against India during the 2016 Asia Cup.

A Harsh Beginning-Batting Failure by Pakistan

Michael Bracewell of New Zealand's interim captain took the toss and decided to play first, an action which later proved to give him the earliest fruits of it. Pakistani middle order was put under strain with New Zealand bowlers taking charge from the beginning. Pakistan lacked some of their major players and were left with three debutants in Hasan Nawaz, Abdul Samad, and Mohammad Ali in the hope of bringing some fresh energy into the team. Team captain Salman Agha had indicated earlier before the game that he was optimistic about this, saying, "We're playing with a new combination.". I am actually looking forward to the new guys, I believe they will have a lot of fun." But it took a complete turn for the worse as Pakistan was unable to get into flow.

The innings began on a disastrous note when Mohammad Haris was bowled for a duck in the first over itself, becoming a victim of Kyle Jamieson. Hasan Nawaz followed soon enough, surviving only two balls before being back in the pavilion by Jacob Duffy. Pakistan's woes continued when Irfan Khan was sent back cheaply, and they were stumbling at 3/1. Pakistan's score in the powerplay was abysmal 14/4, with vice-captain Shadab Khan also not able to score a single run. Salman and Khushdil Try a Comeback

Pakistan's middle order was a bit obstinate with captain Salman Agha and Khushdil Shah as they attempted to stabilize the innings.

The two batsmen were lucky enough, saving early dropped catches, but to no avail. Khushdil did, however, get lucky and hit Pakistan's first six of the tournament in the 10th over against Ish Sodhi as he drove it past the boundary. But little was this one to be proud of, because Sodhi retaliated at once to end the stay of Salman, taking Pakistan to a fragile 57/5. Duffy returned to haunt Pakistan once again, removing Khushdil after a labored 30-ball 32. Brief resistance came from Jahanad Khan, who scored 17 off 17 balls, but even he fell to Sodhi’s precision bowling.

Abdul Samad made his debut in a disappointing manner as he was bowled cheaply, while Zak Foulkes and Duffy combined to dismantle Pakistan's tail, ending their innings in 18.4 overs. Shaheen Afridi and Abrar Ahmed were the remaining two men, ending Pakistan's innings on 91 all out. New Zealand's bowling mastery

New Zealand's ruthless and aggressive bowling never let Pakistan gain rhythm. The opening pace, established by Duffy and Jamieson, established the tone of incessant pressure, and Sodhi and Foulkes subsequently capitalized on Pakistan's vulnerability in batting. Sustained attacking and choking field pressure were the strategies employed by the hosts to perfection. Pakistan were given a wake-up call at the hands of clinical performance, which revealed the vulnerability of Pakistan's batting.

Looking Ahead-Pakistan Needs an Urgent Reset

With four matches remaining in the series, Pakistan have a tall order to overcome if they are to stage a comeback. Their batting order, which was totally out of rhythm in the first T20I, will require radical changes to stand any chance against New Zealand's aggressive bowling unit. Captain Salman Agha and the coaching staff need to come up with a plan to provide the team with the confidence injection it requires and some adjustments prior to the next match.

Pakistan's management will also be compelled to answer the selection issues and see if the fresh faces can be offered a second opportunity or seasoned players brought back to calm the side. Pakistan's batting order needs to figure out how to combat New Zealand's pace and spin assault so that yet another collapse renders the whole series beyond their grasp.

Conclusion-A Nightmare Start for Pakistan

Pakistan's dismal performance in the first T20I has left them on the back foot in the series early on.

Their lowest ever T20I score against New Zealand is a reflection of their continued inability to adapt to new conditions. While New Zealand capitalized on Pakistan's vulnerabilities with a strict bowling strategy, Pakistan needs to get their act together soon and display mettle of character if they have to change fortunes in the rest of the games. The Men in Green have something to prove now, and only a good reaction in the upcoming matches can assist them in saving their campaign in New Zealand.