Hasan Nawaz scored the fastest T20I century for Pakistan, reaching 100 runs in just 44 balls against New Zealand. His incredible performance led to a nine-wicket victory for Pakistan in the third T20I, putting them ahead 2-1 in the five-match series. Key contributions came from Mohammad Haris and the bowling unit, especially Haris Rauf, who took three wickets.
In an electrifying display during the third T20I against New Zealand, Hasan Nawaz achieved the fastest T20I century for Pakistan, reaching this milestone in just 44 balls. This remarkable achievement surpassed the prior record of 49 balls, which was set by Babar Azam against South Africa in 2021. Nawaz’s performance was pivotal in Pakistan’s nine-wicket victory, keeping their series aspirations intact.
Chasing a formidable target of 205, Pakistan efficiently reached their goal with four overs to spare while losing only one wicket. The opening pair of Mohammad Haris and Hasan Nawaz set a robust foundation with a 74-run partnership, prior to Haris being dismissed for 41 runs off 20 deliveries, which included four fours and three sixes. Following this dismissal, captain Salman Ali Agha joined Nawaz, forming a decisive unbeaten partnership of 133 runs.
Earlier, New Zealand struggled after being put to bat first, with notable setbacks as Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf dismissed the aggressive opener Finn Allen in the initial over. Despite Tim Seifert and Will Young attempting to stabilize the innings with a partnership of 40 runs, Seifert was dismissed by Rauf after scoring 19 off nine balls. Chapman spearheaded the New Zealand innings with an aggressive 94 runs from 44 balls, featuring eleven fours and four sixes.
Haris Rauf was instrumental for Pakistan’s bowling attack, capturing three wickets for 29 runs in four overs. Complementing his efforts, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Abrar Ahmed, and Abbas Afridi took two wickets each, while Shadab Khan claimed one wicket. Following this victory, Pakistan now leads the five-match series 2-1, with two additional matches remaining to determine the series outcome.
Hasan Nawaz’s record-breaking century has not only established him as a prominent figure in Pakistan’s cricket history but also elevated the team’s performance in the ongoing series against New Zealand. With a commanding win in hand and the series at 2-1, Pakistan remains in contention for victory in the remaining matches.
Original Source: tribune.com.pk
