Hasan Nawaz has etched his name in the annals of cricket history with a breathtaking performance during the third T20I against New Zealand at Eden Park, Auckland, on March 21, 2025. The 22-year-old opener not only led Pakistan to a crucial victory but also broke the record for the fastest century by a Pakistani in T20 internationals, achieving this remarkable feat in just 44 balls.
Hasan Nawaz’s knock for the ages
In a match that was pivotal for Pakistan’s chances in the five-match series, Nawaz’s explosive innings was nothing short of sensational. Coming off two consecutive ducks in the earlier matches, he silenced critics with an unbeaten 105 runs from just 45 balls, featuring nine fours and seven sixes. His innings propelled Pakistan to chase down a daunting target of 205 runs with ease, finishing the match in just 16 overs and winning by nine wickets.
The New Zealand team had set a challenging total, thanks largely to Mark Chapman’s impressive 94 runs. However, Nawaz’s blistering century ensured that Pakistan remained alive in the series, showcasing not just his talent but also his ability to perform under pressure.
Top 5 fastest centuries for Pakistan in T20Is
- Hasan Nawaz – 44 Balls vs New Zealand (2025)
Nawaz’s record-breaking century came during a high-pressure situation where Pakistan needed to chase down a challenging target of 205 runs. His innings was characterized by aggressive stroke play and impeccable timing. Nawaz’s ability to dominate the New Zealand bowlers not only secured his place in history but also revitalized his standing within the team after a couple of disappointing performances earlier in the series. His unbeaten 105 runs were instrumental in leading Pakistan to victory and showcased his potential as one of the leading batters in T20 cricket.
- Babar Azam – 49 Balls vs South Africa (2021)
Babar Azam, the captain of the Pakistan cricket team, previously held the record for the fastest T20I century for Pakistan with an explosive knock against South Africa on April 14, 2021. Scoring 122 runs off just 59 balls, Babar reached his century in 49 deliveries during a match played at Centurion. His innings included 15 fours and 4 sixes and was pivotal in guiding Pakistan to a successful chase of a daunting target of 204 runs. Babar’s remarkable ability to anchor the innings while maintaining an aggressive approach established him as one of the finest batters in modern cricket.
- Babar Azam – 58 Balls vs New Zealand (2023)
In yet another stunning performance, Babar scored a rapid century against New Zealand on April 15, 2023, at Lahore. He reached his hundred in just 58 balls while remaining unbeaten on 101 runs. This innings was part of a larger total that helped Pakistan secure victory over New Zealand by a significant margin. Babar’s consistency and ability to perform under pressure have made him a cornerstone of Pakistan’s batting lineup.
Also READ: Fans erupt as Hasan Nawaz’s record-breaking century guides Pakistan to a dominant win against New Zealand in the 3rd T20I
- Ahmed Shehzad – 58 Balls vs Bangladesh (2014)
Ahmed Shehzad made his mark on T20I history with a blistering century against Bangladesh during the T20 World Cup on March 30, 2014. He scored an unbeaten 111 runs off just 62 balls, achieving his century in 58 deliveries. This performance was crucial for Pakistan as they aimed to establish dominance in the tournament. Shehzad’s innings featured powerful strokes and showcased his capability as an explosive opener.
- Babar Azam – 62 Balls vs England (2022)
Babar’s prowess continued to shine when he scored another quick century against England on September 22, 2022, in Karachi. He reached his hundred in just 62 balls while scoring an impressive total of 110 not out. This innings not only highlighted Babar’s skill but also reinforced his status as one of the leading batters across all formats of the game. His ability to score quickly while maintaining composure under pressure has been key to many of Pakistan’s successes.
The record for the fastest T20I century has seen remarkable performances from Pakistani cricketers over the years, showcasing their talent and ability to perform under pressure. Nawaz’s recent achievement not only adds another feather to Pakistan’s illustrious cricketing history but also sets a new benchmark for future generations of players.
