First loss marks crossroads for NZ

The Black Caps say the first chink in their golden summer is the wake-up call they needed.

A 48-run loss to Pakistan at Eden Park on Thursday sets up a decider to the three-match Twenty20 international series in Mount Maunganui on Sunday, delivering the sort of high-stakes fixture that has been missing for two months.

Three series whitewashes of the West Indies, a 5-0 ODI series drubbing of Pakistan followed by a first-up T20 win lifted their winning streak to 13.

That record run was dunked in Auckland by a Pakistan side who were clearly motivated, seamer Ben Wheeler said.

"We were a little bit off our game and they showed how well they can play when they're at the top of their game," Wheeler said.

"They were unreal, it was probably a test of what it's going to be like for the rest of the summer.

"First-up, we've got a decider and hopefully we can win."