'We weren't upto the mark' - Pakistan T20I skipper Salman Ali Agha after first loss vs New Zealand

Pakistan white ball cricket entered a new era at the weekend, and already it had turned to sound and fury, as a gaping nine-wicket hole defeated them in the first of five T20Is against New Zealand on Sunday.

Salman Ali Agha was captaining a new-look Pakistan side for the first time as the match came after Pakistan's dismal home performance in the 50-over Champions Trophy and preceded the build-up to the 2026 T20 World Cup.

New Zealand easily chased down the target of 92 runs with a loss of just one run, with Tim Siefert making 44 runs in 29 balls and Finn Allen 29 runs from 17 balls. After losing one wicket of Tim Siefert, Tim Robinson, who scored 18 runs, came to bat and made two runs on the first ball of the 11th over to give New Zealand their win in the first of five T20Is against Pakistan. 

"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, there was a bit of seam movement as well. We will sit down, have a chat and think about the next game. We had three debutants, the more games they play, they'll learn more. The new ball does a bit in New Zealand, we've good bowlers and we'll look to do well in the next match," Salman Ali Agha during the post-match presentation. 

Also Read: 'We could have restricted them to a lesser score' - NZ skipper Michael Bracewell after bowling out Pakistan for 91

A superb bowling display from the trio of Ish Sodhi, Jacob Duffy and Kyle Jamieson decimated Pakistan's batting order and restricted them to just 91. Chasing the target in reply, the Kiwis comfortably touched the 92/1 in just 10.1 overs. Post-match presentation also had player of the match Kyle Jamieson who shared his thoughts about the game.