The first T20I between New Zealand and Pakistan seemed like a match between one of the rapidly improving sides versus one of the teams that is in rapid decline. New Zealand was without their key bowlers, as most of them are away playing the Indian Premier League (Lockie Ferguson, Tim Southee.etc) and the remainder are injured (Kyle Jamieson.etc). On the other hand, Pakistani youngsters delivered a very strong performance yesterday with Saim Ayub and Zaman Khan (both in their early 20s). Future looks bright for Pakistan.
I don't think the future of Pakistan is bright yet. In the last series against Afghanistan, we saw a poor performance from Pakistan. And against New Zealand too, it would not have been easy for Pakistan's batsmen to collect 182 runs if they had their first-order squad. New Zealand's bowling line-up is weak now. However, the way Pakistan performed in this match is absolutely commendable. They have played very well and I will be happy if they can maintain this consistency. Pakistan's main weakness is that their players fail to play consistently well.
I think it is still a little too early to say because yes I agree Pakistan showed a good performance in the last match. But of course, that was against not the main New Zealand team I would say. But at the same time, New Zealand should have done better in batting. There is no excuse for getting all out for less than 90 in the same track wire. Pakistani youngsters are scoring quite easily and freely.
Anyway, it is a five-match series, which will certainly be interesting if Pakistan can win this series.