Watch: Tim Robinson takes Glenn Phillips-like flying catch to dismiss Shadab Khan in 1st NZ vs PAK T20I

New Zealand opener Tim Robinson pulled off a spectacular flying catch at point to dismiss Shadab Khan during the first T20I of the five-match series against Pakistan. Robinson showcased an acrobatic effort, which drew comparisons to his Kiwi teammate Glenn Phillips, one of the best fielders in modern cricket.

New Zealand won the toss and opted to bowl first at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch on Sunday, March 16. Kyle Jamieson, making his T20I return after nearly two years, gave the hosts a perfect start with a wicket-maiden. He dismissed Mohammad Haris for a duck. Debutant Hasan Nawaz also departed for a duck.

Both openers were dismissed for ducks, marking only the second instance of this happening in Pakistan's T20I history. Kyle Jamieson continued his fiery spell. The pacer removed Irfan Khan for one in the third over, leaving struggling Pakistan at 1/3—their lowest-ever score at the fall of the third wicket in T20Is.

Watch: Tim Robinson Takes a Stunning Flying Catch to Dismiss Shadab Khan

Tim Robinson took a stunning catch at backward point to dismiss Shadab Khan, reminiscent of Glenn Phillips’ brilliance in the Champions Trophy. Kyle Jamieson picked up his third wicket as Pakistan slumped to 11-4 in the series opener.

Shadab, returning to the national side, walked in at No. 5 after the top-order collapse. He attempted a cut shot against a wide delivery in the penultimate over of the powerplay but failed to keep it down. Robinson, stationed at the point, dived to his left and completed a spectacular grab.

New Zealand's fielding brilliance continues to be a key asset. Glenn Phillips has developed a habit of taking spectacular catches in the same region, notably dismissing Muhammad Rizwan and Virat Kohli in the 2025 Champions Trophy.

Have a look at the fielding brilliance right here:

What a catch 🔥🔥Robinson catch of the series
Shadab Khan gone
Pakistan 11-4🔥#Cricket #pcbfl @_FaridKhan @BabarAzam_152 @BabarAzam_152 @Masoodkhan9005 pic.twitter.com/A0EzqLwEGK

— M Saqlain M (@saqiiiii55555) March 16, 2025

Pakistan Register Unwanted Batting Record in First T20I Against New Zealand

Pakistan failed to recover from their early batting collapse against New Zealand's seam attack. They were bowled out for just 91 in 18.4 overs. Khushdil Shah was the top scorer with 32 runs, one of only three batters to reach double figures.

Kyle Jamieson was the pick of bowlers for the home team, returning figures of 3-8 in four overs, including a maiden. Jacob Duffy registered career-best T20 figures of 4-14 in 3.4 overs, while Ish Sodhi contributed with 2-27 in his four-over spell.

In response, New Zealand openers Finn Allen and Tim Seifert provided a solid start with a 53-run partnership in the powerplay. Tim Robinson then played a quick cameo to seal the chase, as the hosts secured victory with more than nine overs to spare.

We Weren't Up to the Mark - Salman Ali Agha

Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha admitted that his team was not up to the mark in the first T20I against New Zealand. He emphasized that his team needs to regroup ahead of the second game in Dunedin.

"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. We had three debutants, the more games they play, they'll learn more," newly appointed captain Salman Ali Agha said during the post-match presentation (via Cricbuzz).

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