Pakistan’s cricket team faced a tough challenge as New Zealand set them a target of 345 runs. Unfortunately, the Pakistani side could only muster 271 runs before being bowled out.

Aaqif Javed, making his debut, impressed by taking 2 wickets, while Mohammad Irfan Khan led the bowling attack with 3 wickets to his name.

The match, played in Napier, saw New Zealand claiming a 1-0 lead in the series. The hosts scored 344 runs for the loss of 9 wickets, with standout performances from Mark Chapman, who scored an impressive 132 runs, and Daryl Mitchell, who contributed 76 runs.

In their chase, Pakistan got off to a rocky start, struggling early on and losing wickets at crucial moments. Babar Azam anchored the innings with a solid 78 runs, while Salman Agha supported him with 58 runs.

However, the team’s efforts fell short as they were unable to keep up with the steep target, with notable contributions of 30 runs from Mohammad Rizwan and 36 from Abdullah Shafique.

New Zealand’s innings had an inauspicious start, losing three quick wickets for just 50 runs, with Will Young (1), Nick Kelly (15), and Henry Nicholls (11) returning to the pavilion early.

However, Mark Chapman and Daryl Mitchell stabilized the innings, guiding their team to a formidable total.

Pakistan’s bowlers put in a commendable effort, especially Mohammad Irfan Khan with his three wickets, as well as Haris Rauf and Aaqif Javed, who both took 2 wickets each.

This match marked the international debut for Aaqif Javed, Mohammad Ali, and Usman Khan, adding a fresh dimension to the Pakistani lineup.

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Pakistan’s playing eleven included: Abdullah Shafique, Usman Khan, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Salman Ali Agha, Tayyab Tahir, Mohammad Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Aaqif Javed, and Mohammad Ali.

This defeat comes on the heels of New Zealand’s earlier victory over Pakistan in a 5-match T20 series, where Pakistan was edged out with a score of 1-4.