Image: Pakistan won the 3rd T20I against New Zealand in Auckland / © Wisden
After being 2-0 down in the series, Pakistan produced a dominant performance to win the 3rd T20I against New Zealand by 9 wickets in Auckland. Chasing a challenging target of 205, Pakistan cruised to 207/1 in just 16 overs, driven by a sensational unbeaten 105 off 45 balls from young opener Hasan Nawaz. He smashed 10 fours and 7 sixes at an incredible strike rate of 233.33, earning the Player of the Match award.
Mohammad Haris provided a blistering start with 41 off 20 balls, while captain Agha Salman anchored the chase with a solid 51* off 31 deliveries. Pakistan’s only wicket fell at 74 when Haris was dismissed by Jacob Duffy. The New Zealand bowlers struggled, with Kyle Jamieson conceding 54 runs in 4 overs and Ben Sears giving away 51 in his spell.
Earlier, New Zealand posted 204 runs in 19.5 overs, led by Mark Chapman’s explosive 94 off 44 balls, hitting 11 fours and 4 sixes. Michael Bracewell added a quick 31 off 18. Haris Rauf starred with the ball, picking 3/29, while Shaheen Afridi and Abrar Ahmed grabbed two wickets each. Pakistan’s comprehensive win kept the series alive, showcasing their batting firepower.