In a thrilling display of power-hitting, Hasan Nawaz smashed an unbeaten 105 off just 45 balls, leading Pakistan to a commanding 9-wicket victory over New Zealand in the third T20I on Friday. With this remarkable performance, Pakistan reduced the deficit in the five-match series, keeping the contest alive.
PAKISTAN'S DOMINANT CHASE
Winning the toss and opting to bowl first, Pakistan managed to restrict New Zealand to 204/9 in their allotted 20 overs. Mark Chapman was the standout performer for the Kiwis, scoring a blistering 94 off 44 balls, including 11 fours and four sixes. However, Chapman lacked the necessary support as New Zealand's wickets fell at regular intervals. Captain Michael Bracewell contributed a modest 31, while Tim Seifert made 19, which included a quick 16-run cameo from the second over.
Haris Rauf was the star with the ball for Pakistan, taking 3 wickets for 29 runs. His excellent spell in the middle overs helped stem New Zealand's momentum and eventually led to their downfall.
NAWAZ AND SALMAN POWER PAKISTAN'S CHASE
Pakistan's reply was nothing short of spectacular. The opening partnership between Nawaz and Mohammad Haris provided a solid foundation, with the duo adding 75 runs in the first six overs of the powerplay. Haris, who had been under pressure in the earlier matches, finally found his rhythm, making a rapid 41 off just 20 balls, including four fours and three sixes. He blasted two sixes off the very first over from Kyle Jamieson, helping Pakistan race to 50 runs in just four overs.
Nawaz, who had failed to make an impact in the first two matches, turned the tide with a match-winning performance. He reached his half-century from just 26 balls and continued to dominate throughout his innings. Nawaz found great support from captain Salman Ali Agha, who also played a crucial knock of 51 off 31 balls. The pair formed an unbroken second-wicket partnership of 133 runs, with Nawaz's explosive hitting and Salman's steady accumulation of runs guiding Pakistan to a remarkable total of 207/1 in just 16 overs, securing a comprehensive win with four overs to spare.
A DEFINING MOMENT FOR NAWAZ
Reflecting on his match-winning knock, Nawaz expressed his gratitude for the team's backing after a disappointing start to the series. "I failed in the first two games, and I thank the team for supporting me. When I went out to bat, I wanted to get my first international run, and once I got that, the pressure eased. My focus was always on winning the game for the team," Nawaz said.
KEY MOMENTS AND PERFORMANCES
- Mark Chapman was the lone fighter for New Zealand, making 94 from 44 balls.
- Haris Rauf bowled a brilliant spell, taking 3 wickets for 29 runs.
- Hasan Nawaz's sensational 105* from 45 balls guided Pakistan to victory.
- Salman Ali Agha supported Nawaz with a solid 51 from 31 balls.
- Mohammad Haris contributed 41 from 20 balls to give Pakistan a strong start.
With this win, Pakistan has set up an exciting finish to the series, now trailing 1-2 with two matches to play.
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