Pakistan vs New Zealand, 1st T20I Abandoned Due to Rain

1st T20I between Pakistan and New Zealand was called off due to rain after just two deliveries. Disappointed fans wait for the weather to clear up for the rest of the series.

The first game of the 5-match T20I game played between Pakistan and New Zealand, which was thought to be crucial for the preparation of both teams in the coming T20 World Cup 2024, was halted in the blink of an eye after only two deliveries. Heavy rains soaked into the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, forcing officials to stop the match.

Under captain Babar Azam's leadership, Pakistan won the toss and decided to play first. New Zealand openers Tim Seifert and Tim Robinson were at the line when rain halted play. Shaheen Afridi, who was leading in the Pakistani attack, could douse Robinson to a draw during the second delivery; however, that was the extent of the action fans could watch before it was decided that the weather Gods intervened.

There were initial delays due to rain, and after a long wait, the umpires decided to reduce the match to a 5-over-a-side affair. However, even this shortened format couldn't be completed as fresh spells of rain forced the abandonment.

This is a frustrating outcome for both teams, especially Pakistan, who use this series to fine-tune their strategy and finalize their squad for the World Cup. Captain Babar Azam, at the toss, expressed his desire to bowl first, considering the overcast conditions.

The visitors, New Zealand, sent in a second-string squad with several key players missing due to their participation in the ongoing IPL season. Michael Bracewell, leading the young Kiwis, opted to bat first, believing it was a good batting wicket.

Disappointed fans who braved the elements and tuned in online will have to wait for the weather to improve and see if the rest of the series can go as planned. The Pakistan vs New Zealand, 2nd T20I is scheduled for April 20th at the same venue. You can get live scores, squads, and scorecards for the 2nd T20I match on our website on the same date.