Fri Mar 21 07:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Pakistan Thrashes New Zealand by 9 Wickets in Thrilling T20 Match
**Auckland, New Zealand:** Pakistan secured a resounding 9-wicket victory over New Zealand in the third T20I of their five-match series at Eden Park, Auckland. This crucial win keeps Pakistan alive in the series, although New Zealand still holds a 2-1 lead.
Winning the toss and electing to field first, Pakistan restricted New Zealand to 204 runs in 19.5 overs, despite a stellar 94 run knock by Mark Chapman. Hasan Nawaz spearheaded Pakistan’s triumphant chase with a blistering unbeaten century (105 runs off 45 balls), forming a crucial 133-run unbeaten partnership with captain Salman Agha (51* off 31 balls). Mohammad Haris also contributed a quick-fire 41 runs off 20 balls. For New Zealand, Jacob Duffy took the only wicket.
Pakistan’s bowling attack was equally impressive, with Haris Rauf claiming 3 wickets, while Shaheen Afridi, Abrar Ahmed, and Abbas Afridi each took 2 wickets. Shadab Khan chipped in with one.
The victory was built on a stunning display of power hitting by Nawaz and a composed innings by Agha. Pakistan reached the target in just 16 overs, showcasing their dominance in the second innings. The match saw changes in both teams’ lineups, with Pakistan bringing in Abbas Afridi and Haris Rauf, while New Zealand replaced Lockie Ferguson with Kyle Jamieson. The series continues with the fourth T20I.
First Piper 