Pakistan staged a remarkable comeback on Friday, securing a crucial victory against New Zealand in the third T20I, keeping their hopes alive in the series.
With this dominant performance, Pakistan has not only bounced back but has also sent a strong message to their opponents.
Nawaz, take a bow! The 22-year-old sensation played a match-winning knock, leading Pakistan to a convincing win with four overs to spare. His power-hitting display left New Zealand’s bowlers in despair, as none of them could contain Pakistan’s aggressive approach in this high-stakes T20I encounter. Barring Neesham, all New Zealand bowlers struggled with high economy rates, leaking runs in double digits.
Chasing a formidable target of 205, Pakistan needed a strong start, and they got exactly that. Mohammad Haris and Hasan Nawaz took charge during the Powerplay, dismantling New Zealand’s bowling attack. Pakistan reached 75/1 in the first six overs, setting the tone for a dominant run chase in this thrilling T20I showdown.
Hasan Nawaz, previously struggling with consecutive ducks, finally found his rhythm in this T20I clash. He capitalized on his opportunities, even surviving a dropped catch, and made New Zealand pay with an electrifying innings. Pakistan built upon their openers’ efforts, ensuring they remained ahead in the chase. Salman Agha later joined the attack, scoring a quick fifty to further cement Pakistan’s grip on the match. With a centurion partnership, Pakistan sailed comfortably to victory, leaving New Zealand with no answers.
Earlier, Pakistan’s decision to bowl first proved effective when they dismissed Finn Allen in his 50th T20I and removed Seifert early. However, Mark Chapman’s counter-attacking fifty, supported by Daryl Mitchell, brought New Zealand back into the game. Despite Chapman’s brilliance, Pakistan’s bowlers, led by Haris Rauf, made timely breakthroughs. A late cameo from Michael Bracewell (31 off 18) pushed New Zealand past 200, but it wasn’t enough.
With this win, Pakistan has reduced the series deficit to 1-2, injecting new energy into the contest. The fourth T20I will now take place at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui, on March 23rd. Pakistan will look to continue their resurgence, while New Zealand will aim to regroup and reclaim their dominance in this T20I series.
In the post-match presentation, Pakistan’s captain, Salman Agha, praised his team’s performance, particularly Hasan Nawaz’s outstanding century. He emphasized the importance of backing his players and expressed confidence in chasing a target of 200. On the other hand, New Zealand’s skipper, Michael Bracewell, acknowledged Hasan’s brilliance and admitted his team fell short by 15-20 runs.
Hasan Nawaz was named the PLAYER OF THE MATCH for his sensational innings. He credited his captain and teammates for their support and expressed his relief at breaking his run of ducks. His knock ensured Pakistan stayed alive in the T20I series, making the next match a must-watch battle.