Hassan Nawaz Stuns with Record-Breaking T20 Century as Pakistan Triumphs Over New Zealand

Hassan Nawaz delivered a blazing performance with Pakistan’s fastest T20 century, propelling his team to a triumphant nine-wicket win against New Zealand in Auckland. Chasing a formidable target of 205, Nawaz, the opener, showcased a spellbinding innings of 105 not out from just 45 balls, securing victory in the third T20 and keeping the five-match series alive. At just 22 years old and in only his third international game—having failed to score in the previous two matches—he achieved the feat in a mere 44 balls. Together with Mohammad Haris, who added 41 from 20 deliveries, they established a 74-run opening partnership, which ended when Haris was caught behind off Jacob Duffy’s bowling.

Nawaz accelerated after the initial powerplay, notching up his half-century with a six off 26 balls. Partnering with captain Salman Agha, who scored an unbeaten 51 from 31 balls, Nawaz concluded the match decisively, reaching his century with back-to-back fours and wrapping up the game with four overs to spare. Shahid Afridi previously held Pakistan’s record for the fastest century, achieved in 37 balls during a one-day international against Sri Lanka in 1996.

New Zealand had high hopes of clinching the series early, especially after Michael Chapman dazzled with 94 runs off 44 deliveries. Yet, aside from Chapman’s heroics, only Michael Bracewell managed to score beyond 20, contributing 31 from 18 balls. Haris Rauf was instrumental in restricting New Zealand’s score, taking 3 wickets for 29 runs after Pakistan chose to bowl first. With this victory, the hosts maintain a 2-1 series lead as they prepare for Sunday’s crucial fourth match at Mount Maunganui.