Hasan Nawaz’s blistering unbeaten 105 off 45 balls powered Pakistan to a dominant nine-wicket victory over New Zealand in the third Twenty20 international on Friday, keeping the five-match series alive. Pakistan chased down New Zealand’s formidable total of 204 with ease, finishing at 207-1 with four overs to spare.
Nawaz, who had failed to score in the first two matches, found his form at the right time. Supported by captain Salman Ali Agha, who contributed 51 from 31 balls, Nawaz guided Pakistan to one of their most convincing T20 wins. Their unbroken 133-run partnership for the second wicket ensured Pakistan’s comfortable chase after a rapid start by the openers.
“I failed in the first two games, but I’m thankful for the team’s support,” Nawaz said through an interpreter. “Once I got my first run, the pressure eased, and I focused on winning the game.”
New Zealand had earlier posted 204, largely thanks to Mark Chapman’s explosive 94 from 44 balls, which included 11 fours and four sixes. However, Chapman received little support from his teammates. Captain Michael Bracewell managed 31, while Tim Seifert added 19, but wickets fell at regular intervals. Haris Rauf delivered a stellar bowling performance, claiming 3-29 to stifle the Kiwis in the middle overs.
Pakistan’s decision to retain Nawaz and Mohammad Haris at the top of the order paid off handsomely. After disappointing opening stands in the first two matches, the pair put on a 75-run partnership within the power play. Haris smashed 41 off 20 balls, hitting two sixes in Kyle Jamieson’s first over as Pakistan raced to 50 in just four overs.
Nawaz maintained the momentum, reaching his half-century off 26 balls. Salman followed suit, scoring his maiden T20 international fifty from 30 deliveries. A 19-run over from Jacob Duffy in the 13th set Pakistan on course for an easy win.
With the series now at 2-1, Pakistan’s emphatic response sets up an intriguing battle in the remaining matches.