Pakistan Triumph with a Nine-Wicket Victory, Chasing 205 with Ease in Auckland
Pakistan roared back into the T20I series with a stunning nine-wicket win over New Zealand in the third match, chasing down a formidable 205-run target in Auckland with four overs to spare.
Hasan Nawaz’s Record-Breaking Knock Turns the Tide
Opener Hasan Nawaz delivered a career-defining performance, scoring a record-breaking unbeaten century. After registering two consecutive ducks in his first international matches, the 23-year-old showcased his talent with an explosive 105 off just 44 balls—making it the fastest T20I century by a Pakistan player.
Nawaz’s innings was laced with 10 boundaries and seven towering sixes, including a pair of consecutive fours off Kyle Jamieson to seal the win in the 16th over. His remarkable feat shattered the previous Pakistan record set by Babar Azam, who scored a century in 49 balls against South Africa in 2021.
His spectacular knock, alongside a blistering 41 off 20 balls from Mohammad Haris and an unbeaten 51 off 31 from captain Salman Ali Agha, ensured Pakistan remained in contention in the five-match series.
Resilient Pakistan Bounce Back After Initial Setbacks
Following heavy defeats in Christchurch and Dunedin, Pakistan’s emphatic response in Auckland was a testament to their resilience. The team had undergone a controversial reshuffle ahead of the series, with regular captain Mohammad Rizwan and star batter Babar Azam being dropped. However, the younger squad, backed by the team management, delivered when it mattered most.
“After scoring just one run, the pressure was off, and I just wanted to win the game,” Nawaz told TNT Sports after his record-breaking performance.
Captain Salman Ali Agha praised his team’s execution, stating, “We played a proper game. The bowlers bowled really well, and if you back youngsters, they will come good.”
Chapman’s Heroics Not Enough for New Zealand
New Zealand had earlier set a competitive total of 204, largely thanks to Mark Chapman’s scintillating 94 off 44 balls. Chapman’s aggressive knock, featuring 11 fours and four sixes, gave the hosts a strong foundation. However, the rest of the New Zealand batting lineup struggled to capitalize, with captain Michael Bracewell’s 31 being the only other significant contribution.
Pakistan’s bowling attack, spearheaded by Haris Rauf, restricted the Kiwis well in the final overs. Rauf dismissed Bracewell and ended with figures of 3-29, playing a key role in preventing New Zealand from posting an even bigger total.
Series Poised for a Thrilling Finish
With Pakistan now trailing 2-1 in the five-match series, the upcoming fourth T20I in Mount Maunganui on Sunday promises to be a crucial encounter.
“We knew it was do-or-die, but we just wanted to go and enjoy it,” said Agha. “Now we are looking forward to the next game.”