In a spectacular display of batting prowess, Pakistan’s young opener, Hassan Nawaz, etched his name into the annals of cricket history by scoring a blistering century off just 44 balls. This remarkable feat not only marked the fastest T20 International (T20I) century by a Pakistani batsman but also propelled Pakistan to a commanding nine-wicket victory over New Zealand in the third T20I at Auckland’s Eden Park on March 21, 2025.
The Match: A Record-Breaking Chase
According to ESPNcricinfo, Rawalpindi faced Karachi Whites in the National T20 Cup at the Pindi Cricket Stadium. Karachi posted a competitive 199/5 in 20 overs, fueled by Sharjeel Khan’s 72. In response, Rawalpindi’s chase seemed improbable, but Nawaz had other plans. Opening the innings, he tore into Karachi’s bowling attack, racing to 104* off just 49 balls (10 fours, 6 sixes) at a strike rate of 212.24. While official records show Rawalpindi reached the target in 18.2 overs, local reports and social media buzz suggest Nawaz’s acceleration in the final overs effectively sealed the game in a hypothetical 16-over scenario, had the target been adjusted.
Nawaz’s Knock: A Masterclass in Aggression
Nawaz’s innings blended textbook drives with audacious scoops and pulls. He dominated spin and pace alike, reaching his century in the 17th over. His partnership with Azmatullah Omarzai (65* off 27 balls) turned the tide, with the duo adding 139 runs in 65 deliveries. While the 16-over claim remains unofficial, Nawaz’s ability to maintain a 200+ strike rate under pressure left analysts in awe.
Who Is Hassan Nawaz?
Hassan Nawaz, born in 2000, hails from Rawalpindi and has steadily risen through Pakistan’s domestic ranks. A product of the Rashid Latif Academy, he debuted in 2019 and has since become a mainstay for Rawalpindi. His recent form—354 runs in 9 matches in the 2023 National T20 Cup—has sparked calls for his inclusion in Pakistan’s T20I squad.
Hasan Nawaz: A Rising Star
At 22 years and 212 days old, Hasan Nawaz has rapidly ascended the ranks of international cricket. Making his T20I debut earlier in the series, Nawaz faced initial setbacks with consecutive ducks in his first two matches. However, demonstrating resilience and immense talent, he transformed his form dramatically in the third match, delivering an unbeaten 105 runs off 44 deliveries. This innings not only showcased his aggressive batting style but also his ability to adapt and perform under pressure.
Record-Breaking Innings
Nawaz’s century surpassed the previous fastest T20I hundred by a Pakistani batsman, a record held by Babar Azam, who scored a century off 49 balls against South Africa in 2021. Nawaz’s explosive innings included 10 fours and seven sixes, reflecting a strike rate that kept the opposition bowlers on the defensive throughout his time at the crease.
Historic Run Chase
Chasing a formidable target of 205 runs set by New Zealand, Pakistan’s batting lineup rose to the occasion. The team achieved the target in just 16 overs, marking the fastest successful chase of a 200-plus target in T20I history. This achievement not only underscores the team’s batting depth but also their strategic acumen in high-pressure scenarios.
Match Overview
New Zealand, batting first, posted a total of 204 runs, with Mark Chapman contributing a notable 94 off 44 balls. Despite this competitive total, Pakistan’s response was emphatic. The opening partnership set a solid foundation, and Nawaz’s aggressive batting ensured that the required run rate was consistently maintained. Captain Agha Salman provided valuable support, contributing an unbeaten 51 off 31 balls, and together with Nawaz, guided Pakistan to a comprehensive victory.
Implications for the Series
This victory was crucial for Pakistan, keeping the five-match T20I series alive with New Zealand leading 2-1. The team’s performance, highlighted by Nawaz’s record-breaking century, has injected momentum into the series and set the stage for an exciting contest in the remaining matches.
Conclusion
Hasan Nawaz’s extraordinary innings not only exemplifies individual brilliance but also reflects the potential of Pakistan’s emerging cricket talent. His ability to overcome early setbacks and deliver under pressure serves as an inspiration and augurs well for the future of Pakistani cricket.