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The first T20I of the five-match series between Pakistan and New Zealand was unfortunately washed out due to heavy rain at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Thursday. However, the small crowd present witnessed a moment of brilliance before the weather intervened.
Shaheen Afridi cleans up Tim Robinson with a beauty
Pakistan’s pace spearhead, Shaheen Afridi, cast his magic spell in the very first over, dismissing New Zealand opener Tim Robinson with a swinging delivery that rattled the stumps.
Robinson completely missed the line of the ball, resulting in his middle-stump being knocked back.
This was the only cricketing action fans got to see as rain returned, forcing the abandonment of the match after just two balls.
Here’s the video:
RIPPER!
In time for a dose of @iShaheenAfridi's first-over magic 😎🦅#PAKvNZ | #AaTenuMatchDikhawan pic.twitter.com/1HwXDKVK1T
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) April 18, 2024
Also READ: PAK vs NZ 2024, T20I series: Broadcast, Live Streaming details – When and where to watch in India, USA, UK, Pakistan & other nations
Babar Azam’s return as Pakistan captain
The series opener in Rawalpindi marked the return of Babar Azam as captain and saw international debuts for Usman Khan and Irfan Khan Niazi. Notably, Mohammad Amir, who recently reversed his retirement, was also set to play his first game for Pakistan in nearly four years.
These selections hinted at Pakistan’s plan to test their depth as they gear up for the upcoming T20 World Cup scheduled for June in the United States and the West Indies. The team lineup further indicated a change in batting order with Babar opening alongside Saim Ayub, pushing long-time partner Mohammad Rizwan down to number three.
Usman Khan’s inclusion meant experienced campaigner Fakhar Zaman missed out, while another recently un-retired player, Imad Wasim, was also not included in the playing XI.
