Hasan Nawaz Pakistan Creates History with Fastest T20I Century
The 115-run score by Hasan Nawaz has not only broken records but also given a new lease of life to Pakistan's T20I campaign, with the team's fearless approach and adaptability to challenging conditions paying off, and the selectors' faith in young players being rewarded.
Pakistan's Hasan Nawaz has made history by hitting the fastest-ever T20I century by a Pakistan batter, scoring 105 off 44 balls against New Zealand in the third T20I, helping his team win by nine wickets and keep the series alive at 2-1.
Nawaz's performance was a remarkable turnaround from his first two matches, where he scored consecutive ducks. However, he received reassurance from Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha and deputy Shadab Khan, which boosted his confidence. The team's focus on playing fearless cricket and adapting to the challenging conditions in New Zealand also contributed to his success.
Nawaz's record-breaking ton surpasses Babar Azam's record of 49 balls, set in 2021, and stands as Pakistan's highest individual score against New Zealand in Men's T20Is, surpassing Babar's 101*. He smashed 10 fours and 7 sixes, helping Pakistan chase down New Zealand's 204 in 16 overs.
The national selectors' decision to give promising players longer stretches and shift gears to modern ways of playing white-ball cricket has been vindicated by Nawaz's performance. Pakistan interim head coach Aaqib Javed and the selectors also deserve credit for believing in Nawaz despite his poor start to his international career.
Nawaz's achievement is a testament to the team's resilience and determination, and it will be interesting to see how they build on this momentum in the upcoming matches. With this win, Pakistan has kept the series alive, and the team will look to continue their winning streak in the next match.