Pakistan Thrashes New Zealand in Third T20I
News Desk
Islamabad: Pakistan made a stunning comeback in the T20I series, claiming a dominant nine-wicket victory over New Zealand in the third T20I at Eden Park. They chased down a challenging target of 205 in just 16 overs.
New Zealand:
Hasan Nawaz was the standout performer, blasting a remarkable 105 off 45 balls*, marking his maiden T20I century in only his third international match. His innings, which included 10 fours and 7 sixes, was crucial in Pakistan’s highest-ever successful run chase against New Zealand. He shared an unbroken 133-run partnership with Salman Agha, who contributed a solid 51 off 31 balls*.
Earlier, New Zealand had set a competitive target of 204 runs, but Pakistan’s batting delivered a fierce counterattack that left the hosts stunned. The chase was sealed in style, as Hasan Nawaz hit back-to-back boundaries to bring up his century and secure the victory with 24 balls to spare.
The win levels the series, setting up an exciting climax for the remaining matches.
Team Lineups:
New Zealand retained its winning combination, with Michael Bracewell leading the team. Pakistan, on the other hand, made several key changes, with Salman Ali Agha taking over the captaincy. The absence of senior players like Babar Azam continues to spark debate among fans.
New Zealand Playing XI:
Tim Seifert, Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Mitch Hay (wk), Michael Bracewell (c), Ish Sodhi, Kyle Jamieson, Jacob Duffy, Ben Sears.
Pakistan Playing XI:
Mohammad Haris (wk), Hasan Nawaz, Salman Ali Agha (c), Muhammad Irfan Khan, Shadab Khan, Abdul Samad, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf.
Pakistan’s selection decisions have been met with some criticism, particularly the exclusion of in-form players like Sufiyan Muqeem and Abbas Afridi.
Fans are also calling for the inclusion of experienced players like Usman Khan. Awais, a fan, expressed his frustration: “Abbas and Sufiyan were performing well, yet they were not included in the first two matches. The selection policies remain baffling.”
Indian cricket fan Abhijeet also showed support for Pakistan, stating, “The boys have taken a lot of criticism. They need a win to regain confidence.”
Series at a Crucial Juncture:
New Zealand, having won the first two matches convincingly, will aim to seal the series with another victory. Pakistan, struggling to find consistency, must deliver a strong performance to prevent a series defeat.
With the series poised for an exciting finish, all eyes will be on Pakistan’s young talent to see if they can turn the tide against the hosts.
