Daijiworld Media Network - Auckland
Auckland, Mar 21: A sensational century by debutant Hasan Nawaz and a dominant bowling performance helped Pakistan crush New Zealand by nine wickets in the third T20I, keeping the series alive at 2-1. Chasing 204, Pakistan romped home in just 16 overs, with Nawaz scripting history with the fastest T20I century by a Pakistani batter.
The 22-year-old Nawaz, playing in his debut series, reached his ton in just 44 balls, surpassing Babar Azam’s 49-ball record. His unbeaten 104 off 45 balls, studded with nine fours and seven sixes, was instrumental in Pakistan’s emphatic victory.
Earlier, Pakistan's bowlers set the tone after winning the toss. Haris Rauf (3/29) and Shaheen Shah Afridi (2/36) rattled the Kiwi top order, reducing them to 43/2. Mark Chapman fought back with a blistering 94 off 44 balls, propelling New Zealand to 204 in 19.5 overs.
In response, Pakistan got off to a flying start with Mohammad Haris smashing 41 off 20 balls. Nawaz then took charge, racing to his maiden fifty in 26 balls. Skipper Salman Agha (51 off 31) provided solid support, as the duo stitched an unbroken 133-run stand. Nawaz fittingly sealed the win with a boundary, taking Pakistan to 207/1 in 16 overs.
With two matches to go, Pakistan has reignited hopes of a series comeback, setting the stage for an exciting finish.