Khushdil Shah defends Pakistan's batting approach despite loss against New Zealand in first T20I

Pakistan all-rounder Khushdil Shah has defended the national team’s batting approach after their heavy nine-wicket defeat to New Zealand in the first T20I at Hagley Oval on Sunday.

Khushdil, who made his first T20I appearance since October 2023, was the top scorer for Pakistan in the match, making 32 runs off 30 balls. Pakistan was bowled out for a meagre 91 runs in 18.4 overs after being put into bat.

Pakistan's innings struggled from the start as they were reduced to 1/3 in 2.2 overs by New Zealand's pacers Jacob Duffy and Kyle Jamieson. The situation worsened, and Pakistan quickly slipped to 11/4 in 4.4 overs when vice-captain Shadab Khan fell for just three runs.

Khushdil and captain Salman Ali Agha briefly steadied the ship, putting together a 46-run partnership for the fifth wicket. However, Agha was dismissed in the 12th over, and Khushdil followed shortly after, leaving Pakistan struggling at 64/6 before being eventually bowled out for 91 runs.

New Zealand made light work of the chase, knocking off the target with ease, losing only one wicket and completing the win with 59 balls to spare.

Speaking at the post-match press conference, Khushdil defended the team's approach to batting, citing the change in conditions as a factor affecting their performance. He also emphasized that the team is still in a rebuilding phase, with several new players.

He said, “It was being discussed that we need to play with intent and positively to meet the demands of modern-day cricket. But when we came here, the conditions changed for our players. Secondly, the players are new, and the team is building. They showed intent, but unfortunately, they could not cope with the challenges.”

Khushdil remained hopeful, adding, “So, by the will of Almighty Allah, if the players are given the chance and continue playing with the same intent, our team and its combination will improve.” 

Pakistan now looks to bounce back in the second T20I of the series, which will take place in Dunedin on Tuesday.