Hasan Nawaz smashes fastest T20I hundred for Pakistan in record chase against New Zealand
The 22-year-old, playing only his third T20I, broke Babar Azam’s record for the fastest T20I hundred by a Pakistani, reaching three figures in just 44 deliveries.
Pakistan kept their T20I series alive in stunning fashion, thrashing New Zealand in the third match in Auckland on 21 March. Chasing 205, the visitors stormed to victory in just 16 overs, losing only one wicket.
Hasan Nawaz was the star of the night, blasting an unbeaten 105 off just 45 balls, including 10 fours and 7 sixes. The 22-year-old, playing only his third T20I, broke Babar Azam's record for the fastest T20I hundred by a Pakistani, reaching three figures in just 44 deliveries. His innings ensured Pakistan completed their highest successful run chase in T20Is away from home.
Captain Salman Ali Agha provided solid support, scoring 51 not out off 31 balls, striking 7 fours and 2 sixes. Mohammad Haris set the tone with an aggressive 41 off 20, dispatching the New Zealand bowlers to all parts of the ground before falling.
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Pakistan's explosive start saw them register their highest-ever powerplay score in T20I history, racing to 75-1 in the first six overs. Even after Haris' dismissal, the attacking intent never wavered, with Hasan and Salman ensuring a dominant finish.
Earlier, New Zealand had posted 204 in 19.5 overs, largely thanks to Mark Chapman's 94 off 44 balls, which included 11 fours and 4 sixes. However, the hosts suffered a dramatic collapse after his departure. Haris Rauf led the charge with the ball for Pakistan, taking three wickets, while Shaheen Shah Afridi, Abrar Ahmed, and Abbas Afridi claimed two each.
Despite New Zealand leading the five-match series 2-1, Pakistan's emphatic response has set the stage for an intriguing finish.
