Salman Ali Agha opens up after loss in first T20I against New Zealand

Pakistan's T20I captain, Salman Ali Agha, shared his thoughts after the team’s disappointing loss in the first T20I against New Zealand on Sunday at Hagley Oval. In a post-match conference, Agha admitted that the team was not at their best and acknowledged the challenge of accepting the defeat.

“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,” said Agha.

The middle-order batter also praised Pakistan's three debutants in the match, highlighting their potential and the importance of experience in the international arena.

“We had three debutants, the more games they play, they'll learn more. The new ball does a bit in New Zealand, we've got good bowlers and we'll look to do well in the next match,” he added.

In the match, New Zealand comfortably defeated Pakistan by nine wickets in the first T20I of the series at Hagley Oval. Chasing a modest target of 92, openers Tim Seifert (44) and Finn Allen (29*) put on a solid 53-run stand in the powerplay. Seifert fell to Abrar Ahmed, but Tim Robinson (18) helped complete the chase in the 11th over, giving New Zealand a 1-0 lead.

Pakistan’s batting faltered as they were bowled out for just 91. Kyle Jamieson (3 wickets) and Jacob Duffy (4 wickets) were the standout bowlers, while Abrar Ahmed was the only Pakistan bowler to take a wicket. Pakistan’s collapse started with 11-4 in 4.4 overs, and despite a 46-run partnership between Salman Ali Agha (18) and Khushdil Shah (32), they fell short.

Zakary Foulkes then took the wicket of Jahandad Khan, who managed 17 runs, and Pakistan was struggling at 85-8. Shaheen Afridi also failed to make an impact, dismissed by Duffy for just one, leaving Pakistan at 89-9 in 18.1 overs.

The last wicket fell with Abrar Ahmed's dismissal, as Pakistan finished their innings at 91, just nine runs short of 100.

Jacob Duffy was the standout bowler, taking four wickets, while Kyle Jamieson claimed three. Ish Sodhi and Zakary Foulkes also contributed, taking two and one wickets respectively. 

With this comprehensive win, New Zealand now leads the series 1-0, with four more matches to go.