In an exhilarating match for the ongoing five-match series between NZ vs PAK 3rd T20. This match was played on March 21, 2025, at Eden Park, Auckland, and Hasan Nawaz made the headlines as he had a beautiful century which took his team to a very comfortable 9 wickets win.
Pakistan clinched their first series victory, with some belittling him and down New Zealand’s lead to 2-1 with Nawaz’s annihilating innings along with Pakistan’s clinical chase in the game.
New Zealand’s Innings: Mark Chapman Steals the Show, But Rest of the Batting Line-Up Falters
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New Zealand, who won the toss and decided to bat, posted a total of 205 runs. They lost all their wickets at 204/10 in 19.5 overs. Mark Chapman was the Kiwi hero, who scored an excellent 94 runs off 44 balls, with 11 fours and 4 sixes.
But other major batsmen such as Finn Allen (0), Daryl Mitchell (17), James Neesham (3), and Mitchell Hay (9) were not able to make a significant contribution. Michael Bracewell (31) and Tim Seifert (19) attempted to support, but New Zealand’s batting order could not establish a strong base to pose a threat to Pakistan.
Pakistan’s Bowling Performance
Pakistan’s bowlers were in top shape in New Zealand’s innings. Haris Rauf was the best bowler, taking 3 wickets for 34 runs. In contrast, Shaheen Afridi, Abrar Ahmed, and Abbas Afridi all took 2 wickets each, while Shadab Khan added 1 wicket.
The Pakistani bowlers kept a tight leash throughout the New Zealand innings, not allowing the Kiwi team to post an even bigger total.
Hasan Nawaz’s Record-Breaking Century Gives Pakistan Victory
Hasan Nawaz, the 22-year-old opener, was the showstopper in the NZ vs PAK 3rd T20, remaining unbeaten with 105 runs from a mere 45 balls.
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His century, featuring 10 boundaries and 7 sixes, was a class lesson in T20 batting. Nawaz’s match-winning performance helped Pakistan chase New Zealand’s score of 204 runs comfortably.
Pakistan chased down the target in only 16 overs, with only 1 wicket falling—of Mohammad Haris (41 runs), who got out to Jacob Duffy. With Nawaz, Salman Ali Agha also scored 51 runs from 31 balls. Such a breathtaking stand took Pakistan across the line 4 overs in advance.
Pakistan’s Strong Response: Quick and Clinical Chase
Pursuing 205, Pakistan’s opening pair started the proceedings in an attacking manner. Mohammad Haris (41) had a frenzied knock before getting out. But Nawaz’s genius took the team ahead.
His century at more than 230’s strike rate was the pick of the chase. Nawaz’s association with Salman Ali Agha (51* off 31 balls) helped Pakistan cross the target easily, having ample overs in hand.
Series Update: Pakistan Pulls One Back
With this 9-wicket win in the NZ vs PAK 3rd T20, Pakistan has claimed its first win of the series, which currently lies at 2-1 in New Zealand’s favor. Nawaz’s outstanding performance has instilled newfound confidence in Pakistan as it enters the fourth match of the series. The second-last match will be held on March 23, 2025, at Bay Oval, Maunganui, where both sides will try to leave their mark.
Important Figures from NZ vs PAK 3rd T20
– Hasan Nawaz: 105* runs (45 balls, 10 fours, 7 sixes)
– Salman Ali Agha: 51* runs (31 balls, 6 fours, 2 sixes)
– New Zealand Total: 204/10 (19.5 overs)
– Top New Zealand Scorer: Mark Chapman – 94 runs (44 balls, 11 fours, 4 sixes)
– Pakistan Bowling: Haris Rauf – 3 wickets, Shaheen Afridi – 2 wickets, Abrar Ahmed – 2 wickets, Abbas Afridi – 2 wickets, Shadab Khan – 1 wicket
A Thrilling Win for Pakistan
The NZ vs PAK 3rd T20 will be talked about for Hasan Nawaz’s outstanding century and Pakistan’s clinical pursuit. Nawaz’s match-winning innings was a game-changer, and his innings have put him firmly in the limelight.
4th T20 will be played on 23rd March 2025 in Mount Maunganui where Pakistan will work towards keeping themselves alive in the series for the finale.
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