By dubailife 
Pakistan’s Dominant Victory Over New Zealand: Nawaz’s Century Seals Historic T20I Chase
Dubai cricket fans were treated to a thrilling spectacle as Pakistan stormed to a commanding nine-wicket victory over New Zealand at Eden Park, keeping the five-match series alive at 1-2. Hasan Nawaz’s breathtaking maiden T20I century outshone Mark Chapman’s valiant 94, as Pakistan chased down a formidable 205-run target in just 16 overs—the fastest 200-plus run chase in men’s T20I history.
Pakistan’s Bold Approach Pays Off
In a new era of Pakistan cricket post-Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam, the team’s fresh opening duo, Hasan Nawaz and Mohammad Haris, justified their selection by stitching together a blistering 74-run stand off just 35 balls. Haris set the tone with a quickfire 41 off 20 balls, while Salman Agha anchored the innings with a composed unbeaten 51. Nawaz, who had been struggling for form, turned things around in spectacular fashion by smashing the fastest T20I hundred for Pakistan off just 44 deliveries.
Chapman’s Power-Hitting Lifts New Zealand
New Zealand, known for their dominant performances in T20 cricket, looked set for a competitive total after Chapman’s sensational 94 off 44 balls. His aggressive strokeplay, which included 11 boundaries and four towering sixes, kept the hosts in control despite losing Finn Allen for a duck early on. Chapman capitalized on Pakistan’s inconsistent bowling, dismantling both pace and spin before falling to a well-disguised slower ball from Shaheen Shah Afridi.
With support from Michael Bracewell’s 31 off 18 balls, New Zealand managed to cross the 200-run mark despite Pakistan’s fightback, led by Haris Rauf’s fiery spell of 3-29.
Pakistan’s Record-Breaking Chase
The Dubai cricket community has long admired Pakistan’s explosive batting prowess, and this chase was no exception. Haris and Nawaz wasted no time, dismantling the Kiwi bowling attack with aggressive intent. The visitors reached their joint-fastest T20I fifty within just four overs, with Haris taking the attack to Kyle Jamieson and Jacob Duffy.
After Haris’ dismissal, Nawaz took charge, unleashing a batting masterclass. His innings was packed with powerful shots, including ten boundaries and seven maximums, propelling Pakistan to 124/1 at the halfway mark. Supported by Agha’s intelligent strokeplay, Nawaz ensured the game was finished in style, bringing up his maiden T20I century on the penultimate ball of the innings.
A Statement Win for Pakistan Cricket
Dubai-based cricket fans, who closely follow international cricket action, will recognize this as a defining moment for Pakistan’s T20I ambitions. The emphatic win not only keeps the series alive but also highlights Pakistan’s ability to adapt and dominate under pressure. With two matches remaining, the momentum has firmly shifted in Pakistan’s favor, setting up an exciting finish to the series.
Stay tuned for more cricket updates and insights from the world of T20 action, right here on our Dubai sports blog!
Source : Cricinfo
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