Sohail Khan acknowledged Pakistan had given up too many first-innings runs prior to their own batting collapse at the hands of New Zealand on Saturday.

After being dismissed for 133 and 171 en route to defeat in the opening Test in Christchurch, Pakistan slumped to 76-5 on day two at Seddon Park.

The disappointing start to the tourists' innings came after the Black Caps had recovered from 119-5 to reach 271 all out, wicketkeeper BJ Watling contributing an unbeaten 49.

Asked if New Zealand had exceeded a par total on a green surface, Sohail was quoted by stuff.co.nz as saying: "Yes, 270 shouldn't be scored. It is a bit on the high side on this pitch."

Nevertheless, the seamer - who returned 4-99 - insisted Pakistan were not out of the game.

"The thing is, one good partnership can take us very close," he added.

"We will try to go as close as possible, and after that the responsibility will go on the bowlers to get the New Zealanders out as quickly as possible."

Sohail defended Pakistan's decision to omit leg-spinner Yasir Shah in favour of an all-pace attack.

"Over here there is no need for spinners," he argued, in reference to the seam-friendly conditions.

"Spinners are just [used] to kill the time over here, to stop the runs. But this game is more like an attacking game now [with Pakistan needing to win to square the series]."