Third T20I
Pakistan delivered an outstanding performance in the third T20I against New Zealand, securing a convincing 9-wicket victory at Eden Park in Auckland. The match saw Pakistan chase down a challenging target of 205 runs, marking their highest successful run chase against New Zealand in T20I history.
Young batting sensation Hasan Nawaz was the star of the match, playing a sensational knock of 105 runs off just 45 balls. His explosive innings, featuring 10 boundaries and 7 sixes, came in only his third international match, making it his maiden T20I century.
His performance played a crucial role in Pakistan’s dominant run chase, as he formed an unbroken 133-run partnership with Salman Agha. Agha provided solid support with a well-compiled 51 off 31 balls, ensuring Pakistan comfortably reached the target with ease.
Earlier in the match, Pakistan won the toss and opted to bowl first. New Zealand put up a competitive total of 204 runs before being bowled out in 19.5 overs. Left-handed batter Mark Chapman was the standout performer for the Kiwis, playing a brilliant innings of 94 runs off 44 balls.
His knock included 11 boundaries and four massive sixes. However, he fell short of his century when he was dismissed by Shaheen Shah Afridi, who ended with figures of 2 for 36 in his four-over spell.
New Zealand’s innings also saw contributions from captain Michael Bracewell, who added 31 runs, while Tim Seifert and Daryl Mitchell chipped in with 19 and 17 runs, respectively. However, the Pakistani bowlers maintained control throughout the innings, restricting the hosts from accelerating further.
Haris Rauf was the standout performer with the ball for Pakistan, claiming three wickets for 29 runs in his four-over spell. His crucial breakthroughs, along with Afridi’s disciplined bowling, helped Pakistan restrict New Zealand to a chaseable total.
With this victory, Pakistan showcased their strength in all departments, displaying an exceptional mix of aggressive batting, disciplined bowling, and smart fielding. The win not only boosts their confidence but also strengthens their standing in the ongoing T20I series.
Squads
New Zealand Squad:
Michael Bracewell (c), Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes (matches 4-5), Mitch Hay, Matt Henry (matches 4-5), Kyle Jamieson (matches 1-3), Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Will O’Rourke (matches 1-3), Tim Robinson, Ben Sears, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi
Pakistan Squad:
Salman Ali Agha (captain), Shadab Khan (vice-captain), Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Hasan Nawaz, Jahandad Khan, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Haris, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Omair Bin Yousaf, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sufyan Moqim, Usman Khan
This comprehensive win underlines Pakistan’s growing prowess in the T20I format, as they look forward to continuing their winning momentum in the series.
