Eden Park, Auckland – Pakistan National Cricket Team roared back into the five-match T20I series with a dominant nine-wicket victory over New Zealand National Cricket Team in the third match, reducing the series deficit to 2-1. The star of the show was young opener Hassan Nawaz, who smashed an unbeaten 105 off just 45 balls, leading Pakistan’s chase of 205 with remarkable ease.
Nawaz’s Century Steals the Show
Chasing 205, Pakistan got off to a flying start with Mohammad Haris (41 off 20) setting the tone. However, it was Hassan Nawaz who took control, punishing the New Zealand bowlers with a flurry of boundaries and sixes. His 105* was laced with aggressive stroke play, and he found strong support in Salman Ali Agha (51* off 31), who ensured there were no hiccups in the chase.
The duo’s explosive partnership powered Pakistan to 207/1 in just 16 overs, sealing a resounding victory with 24 balls to spare.
Chapman’s Heroics in Vain
Earlier, New Zealand posted a competitive 204 in 19.5 overs, thanks to a brilliant knock from Mark Chapman. The left-hander played a breathtaking innings of 94 off 44 balls, anchoring the innings after the Kiwis lost early wickets. Michael Bracewell (31 off 18) provided some late fireworks, but Pakistan’s bowlers kept making timely breakthroughs.
Haris Rauf led Pakistan’s bowling attack with figures of 3/29, while Shaheen Afridi (2/36) and Abbas Afridi (2/24) played crucial roles in restricting New Zealand below what seemed like a par total on a batting-friendly Eden Park pitch.
Series Now Wide Open
With this emphatic win, Pakistan has gained crucial momentum heading into the fourth T20I. New Zealand still leads the series 2-1, but Pakistan’s resurgence has added excitement to the contest. The next match promises to be a thriller as both teams fight to gain the upper hand.
Key Performances:
- Pakistan: Hassan Nawaz (105* off 45), Salman Ali Agha (51* off 31), Haris Rauf (3/29)
- New Zealand: Mark Chapman (94 off 44), Michael Bracewell (31 off 18), Shaheen Afridi (2/36)
Can Pakistan level the series, or will New Zealand strike back? The fourth T20I will be a must-watch!
