Sun Mar 16 00:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Pakistan’s T20I Tour Starts with Crushing Defeat in New Zealand
**Christchurch, New Zealand** – Pakistan’s hopes of a fresh start after a disastrous Champions Trophy campaign were dashed in their opening T20I against New Zealand. A devastating powerplay spell from New Zealand fast bowler Kyle Jamieson left Pakistan reeling at 14 for 4 after just six overs.
Jamieson claimed three wickets in the powerplay, including a wicket-maiden in his first over, dismissing opener Mohammad Haris. He later removed Irfan Khan and Shadab Khan, the latter caught spectacularly by Tim Robinson. Jacob Duffy also contributed, dismissing opener Hasan Nawaz.
The poor start comes after Pakistan selectors controversially dropped star batsmen Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan for the T20I series. Interim head coach Aaqib Javed explained the decision as a move to foster a new approach and develop a fearless mindset within the team for modern T20 cricket, mirroring the strategies of other international teams who utilize separate T20 squads. However, both Babar and Rizwan have been retained for the upcoming ODI series. The five-match T20I series continues, with Pakistan facing a steep uphill battle to recover from their disastrous opening.
First Piper 