By Zainab Shafiq 
Pakistan’s T20I form has hit rock bottom, with the team suffering defeat after defeat in the shortest format of the game. Out of their last 18 completed T20Is, Pakistan have managed to win only against weak teams such as Ireland (three times), Zimbabwe (twice), and Canada. Their last victory against a top-tier team came almost a year ago in April 2024, when they defeated New Zealand. Since then, the side has struggled immensely, raising serious concerns about their squad composition, leadership, and strategy.
The statistics paint a grim picture. Losses to Australia, England, India, South Africa, and New Zealand have exposed Pakistan’s vulnerabilities in both batting and bowling. Even against weaker opposition, Pakistan have barely managed to scrape through, with narrow wins against Ireland and Zimbabwe. A tied match against the USA further highlights the unpredictable and inconsistent nature of their performances.
Pakistan’s batting lineup has often crumbled under pressure, with frequent collapses and an overreliance on a few players. Their bowling, once a major strength, has also faltered, with key pacers struggling to find form. These repeated failures have left fans frustrated and experts questioning the team’s direction, especially with major tournaments approaching.
No T20Is With Weak Teams Sooner, It’s New Zealand This Time
Coming off a disastrous Champions Trophy 2025 campaign, Pakistan’s woes continued as they suffered a humiliating nine-wicket defeat against New Zealand in the first T20I at Christchurch. The match was yet another reminder of Pakistan’s declining form, as they failed to put up a fight against the Kiwis.
Batting first after losing the toss, Pakistan put on a dismal display, getting bowled out for just 91 in 18.4 overs. The innings started on a disastrous note, with both openers, Mohammad Haris and Hasan Nawaz, departing for ducks within the first two overs. The wickets kept tumbling as Pakistan lost four within the powerplay, struggling to even rotate the strike. Captain Salman Agha tried to stabilize the innings with a cautious 18 off 20 balls, but his dismissal further dented Pakistan’s hopes of a recovery.
Khushdil Shah was the only batter to offer some resistance, top-scoring with 32 off 30 balls, including three sixes. However, New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack, led by Kyle Jamieson (3/8) and Jacob Duffy (4/14), made sure Pakistan never got the momentum they needed.
In response, New Zealand chased the target with ease, reaching 92/1 in just 10.1 overs. Tim Seifert led the charge with a quickfire 44 off 29 balls, while Finn Allen (29*) and Tim Robinson (18*) ensured a comfortable victory. The lone wicket for Pakistan came from Abrar Ahmed, but it was nowhere near enough to challenge the home side.
This defeat has left Pakistan trailing 0-1 in the five-match series, with serious questions looming over their batting order, bowling attack, and leadership. With pressure mounting on the management and players, Pakistan will need a dramatic turnaround to salvage their reputation in the remaining matches.
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