Hasan Nawaz achieved a record-breaking T20I century in just his third match, scoring 105 runs off 45 balls against New Zealand. This feat marked the fastest hundred by a Pakistani in T20Is, surpassing Babar Azam’s previous record. Nawaz’s performance included 10 fours and seven sixes, significantly contributing to Pakistan’s victory in just 16 overs, thereby keeping the series alive at 2-1.
In a remarkable display of talent, 22-year-old opening batter Hasan Nawaz made headlines during his third T20I match by compiling a stunning unbeaten 105 runs off just 45 balls. His performance led Pakistan to a historic victory, chasing down New Zealand’s total of 204 in only 16 overs.
Having previously recorded two consecutive ducks in his initial T20I appearances, Nawaz broke through with this record-breaking century. It was accomplished with remarkable speed, resulting in the fastest T20I hundred for Pakistan, achieved in 44 balls, surpassing Babar Azam’s previous record, which he had set in 2021 against South Africa with 49 balls.
The list of fastest T20I centuries for Pakistan now highlights Nawaz’s impressive achievement:
– Hasan Nawaz: 44 balls vs. New Zealand
– Babar Azam: 49 balls vs. South Africa
– Ahmed Shehzad: 58 balls vs. Bangladesh
– Babar Azam: 58 balls vs. New Zealand
– Babar Azam: 62 balls vs. England
Nawaz’s innings featured 10 fours and seven sixes, while Pakistan lost only one wicket, that of Mohammad Haris, who contributed 41 runs. He swiftly reached his fifty in just 26 balls, playing a crucial role in establishing a swift 74-run partnership within a mere 5.5 overs.
Continuing his assault, Nawaz completed his century off the next 18 deliveries. Additionally, he set a new record for the highest individual score by a Pakistani against New Zealand in Men’s T20Is, surpassing Babar’s 101* achieved earlier in 2023 in Lahore.
Captain Salman Ali Agha contributed to the win by supporting Nawaz, thus keeping the series alive for Pakistan with a current standing of 2-1. Meanwhile, in the previous innings, New Zealand’s Mark Chapman showcased excellent form, scoring 94 runs before the team was bowled out for 204, with Haris Rauf claiming three wickets alongside two wickets each for Shaheen Afridi, Abbas Afridi, and Abrar Ahmed.
In summary, Hasan Nawaz’s astounding performance in his third T20I match solidified his status in Pakistani cricket, resulting in a record-breaking century and leading Pakistan to a significant victory over New Zealand. His rapid-fire century not only set a new benchmark for the fastest hundred by a Pakistani batsman but also marked a pivotal moment in the ongoing series. Pakistan’s team dynamics and Nawaz’s resilience are commendable as they strive for success in the competition.
Original Source: www.icc-cricket.com
