• Pakistan chased down a challenging 205-run target with ease to register a resounding nine-wicket victory over New Zealand in the 3rd T20I.

  • Hasan Nawaz was named Player of the Match for his record breaking innings.

Fans erupt as Hasan Nawaz’s record-breaking century guides Pakistan to a dominant win against New Zealand in the 3rd T20I
Pakistan (Image Source: X)

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Pakistan produced a spectacular batting display in the third T20I at Auckland, chasing down a challenging 205-run target with ease to secure a resounding nine-wicket victory. After New Zealand put up a formidable 204-run total, Pakistan’s chase was nothing short of extraordinary, led by Hasan Nawaz’s breathtaking century (105 off 45 balls).

The young opener dismantled New Zealand’s bowling attack with an array of explosive strokes, ensuring Pakistan reached the target with four overs to spare. He was ably supported by Mohammad Haris (41 off 20) in a 74-run opening stand, leaving New Zealand stunned. With this emphatic victory, Pakistan stayed alive in the five-match series, making a strong statement ahead of the remaining games.

New Zealand’s batting power takes them to a competitive 204

Opting to bat first, New Zealand capitalized on the small dimensions of Eden Park, launching an aggressive batting effort to post 204 runs on the board. Finn Allen (62 off 30) was at his destructive best, attacking from the outset with clean hitting and fearless stroke play. He found solid support from Tim Seifert (48 off 29) as the duo dominated the powerplay, adding a rapid 80-run partnership. However, Pakistan’s bowlers hit back in the middle overs, with Shadab Khan (2/36) and Haris Rauf (2/38) applying pressure through crucial wickets, slowing down New Zealand’s charge. Daryl Mitchell’s quickfire 32 off 15 balls ensured the Kiwis crossed the 200-run mark, setting Pakistan a stiff target of 205 runs.

Also WATCH: Haris Rauf plucks a one-handed screamer to dismiss Finn Allen in the 3rd T20I – NZ vs PAK

Hasan Nawaz’s century leads Pakistan to a stunning chase

Pakistan’s response to the massive target was nothing short of extraordinary. Nawaz, playing one of the finest T20I knocks in Pakistan’s history, ripped apart New Zealand’s bowling attack, scoring an unbeaten 105 off just 45 balls. His intent was clear from the very first over as he hammered boundaries at will, bringing up his maiden T20I hundred in just 42 balls. His approach was fearless yet controlled, mixing power-hitting with elegant strokes. At the other end, Haris matched Nawaz’s aggression after that Salman Agha (51 off 31) not out finished the chase comfortably, sealing the win with 24 balls to spare.

New Zealand’s bowlers had no answers to the onslaught, with Ben Sears, Jacob Duffy and Ish Sodhi all conceding heavily. The Kiwis were left searching for breakthroughs, but Pakistan’s relentless attacking approach never allowed them back into the game.

Here’s how fans reacted:

Also WATCH: NZ vs PAK – Shaheen Afridi concedes four sixes in one over as Tim Seifert shines in 2nd T20I

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About the Author:
AMAR PAL SINGH BHALLA
Amar is a sports enthusiast and a talented writer who has found the perfect career that combines his two passions. As a valuable member of Cricket Times, Amar brings his passion for cricket and his talent for writing to the fore, providing readers with insightful and engaging content. Cricket lives rent-free in his mind. A person who views cricket as a metaphor for life. You can connect with Amar at amar.bhalla@crickettimes.com and also follow him on LinkedIn.