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The Pakistan cricket team secured a comprehensive 9-wicket win over New Zealand in the third T20 International, chasing down a target of 204 runs with ease. The standout performance came from Hassan Nawaz, who registered the fastest century in T20I history for Pakistan, guiding his team to victory with a commanding innings.

Hassan Nawaz’s Record-Breaking Century

Batting aggressively from the start, the 22-year-old Hassan Nawaz scored a blistering 100 off just 44 balls, breaking the previous record held by Babar Azam, who had scored a T20I century in 49 balls against South Africa in 2021.

Fastest T20I Centuries for Pakistan:

  • Hassan Nawaz – 44 balls
  • Babar Azam – 49 balls
  • Ahmed Shehzad – 58 balls
  • Babar Azam – 58 balls (second time)

Hassan Nawaz built a 74-run opening partnership with Mohammad Haris, laying a strong foundation for the chase. His explosive batting dismantled New Zealand’s bowling attack and cemented his place as a promising new talent for Pakistan.

Turning Around a Slow Start

Remarkably, this was only Hassan Nawaz’s third T20I match, and he had failed to score in his first two appearances. However, his record-setting century in the third game proved his resilience and potential, earning praise from cricket fans and analysts alike.

New Zealand’s Performance

Batting first, New Zealand posted a competitive 204/4 in 20 overs, thanks largely to a brilliant knock from Mark Chapman, who scored 94 off 44 balls, hitting 11 fours and 4 sixes. Michael Bracewell contributed 31 runs, while Tim Seifert added 19.

For Pakistan, Haris Rauf was the most successful bowler, taking 3 wickets, helping contain New Zealand’s middle-order efforts.