Babar's resistance takes Pakistan to 105 against Kiwis

Pakistan’s batting nightmare continues as Green Shirts were bowled out on 105 against New Zealand on Monday in the first Twenty 20 International (T20I).

Once again, the visitors had a disastrous start as they lost both the openers, Fakhar Zaman (3) and Umar Amin (0), early after been invited to bat first by the Kiwis.

Mohammad Nawaz (7) and Haris Sohail (9) were the next to go, as Pakistan were reduced to 22-4 before six overs. Skipper Sarfraz Ahmed went back to the pavilion after scoring nine runs only.

Shadab Khan, out for a golden duck, followed next, leaving Pakistan at 38-6. Faheem Ashraf was removed for 7, and Hasan Ali fell after a brave 23 off 12 balls, with Pakistan at 83-8. Mohammad Amir went for 3, leaving Pakistan at 90-9.

However, Babar Azam continued his calculated resistance from the other end and ended up scoring 41 runs. Pakistan were bowled out on 105 in 19.4 overs.

Now New Zealand require 106 in 20 overs. The hosts are on a high, having just swept the one-day series against Pakistan and are backing themselves to continue that form as they switch to the shortest form of the game.