Pakistan did what only Pakistan can surprise the world with brilliance at the very moment when you least expect it. After two disappointing showings in the first two T20Is of their five-match series against New Zealand, the visitors came back stunningly on Friday in Auckland, chasing down a record 205 in 16 overs to keep the series alive.

The overnight hero was 22-year-old Hasan Nawaz, who appeared in his third T20 International. Having scored ducks in his initial two games, the young batsman made a statement with his knock, hammering 105 from 45 deliveries to guide Pakistan's record-breaking chase. He achieved his hundred in a mere 44 deliveries, smashing Babar Azam's record for the quickest T20I hundred by a Pakistani batsman earlier 49 balls against South Africa in 2021.

- He's 22 Year old.
- He's playing debut series.
- Vs New Zealand in NZ.
- Chasing 205 runs.
- Smashed fastest T20I Hundred for PAK.
- He scored 105*(45).

HASAN NAWAZ - A SPECIAL TALENT FOR PAKISTAN. ⭐ pic.twitter.com/Lefb94GhxG

— Tanuj Singh (@ImTanujSingh) March 21, 2025

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Pakistan reached the target with nine wickets in hand, producing one of their most comprehensive performances in recent times. Skipper Salman Ali Agha played the ideal supporting role, staying unbeaten on 51 off 31 balls.

The 205 chase is now Pakistan's second-highest successful T20I run chase and the joint-highest overseas an assertive reaction from a side under pressure following consecutive losses.

With the series currently standing at 2-1 in favor of New Zealand, Pakistan will hope that this nail-biting victory is the catalyst they need to bring the tide around.