Pakistan Equals All-Time T20 Record For Fastest Ever 200-Plus Run Chase

Pakistan set a new record for the fastest-ever 200-plus run chase in T20Is, storming past a formidable target against New Zealand with 24 balls to spare.

Entering the series with a revamped T20I squad that notably missed the likes of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan’s new chapter in this format began on a rocky note, suffering heavy defeats in their first two matches. The batting display raised alarm bells, as they were skittled for just 91 in Christchurch and managed a 135-9 in the curtailed second T20I. However, as the series shifted to Auckland, they roared back with a dazzling performance, dispelling any doubts.

Opting to field first, Captain Salman Ali Agha watched as New Zealand unleashed a barrage on Pakistan’s bowlers. Mark Chapman dazzled with a blistering 94 off 44 balls while stand-in captain Michael Bracewell added a late flourish, propelling the Kiwis past 200. Abrar Ahmed faced particular ire, conceding 43 runs in just three overs. By the end of the innings, Pakistan found themselves facing a daunting chase, one of the highest in their history.

In a spectacular display, Pakistan executed their second-highest successful run chase in men’s T20Is, scoring at a staggering rate of 12.93 runs per over against New Zealand—marking their highest-ever innings run rate.

Mohammad Haris ignited the innings with fervour, launching two sixes off Kyle Jamieson in the very first over. The opening partnership raced to 67 without loss in the first five overs, peppering the field with 10 boundaries. After Haris fell just shy of a swift half-century in the sixth over, Hasan Nawaz took the spotlight.

After faltering with ducks in his first two T20I matches, Nawaz’s resurgence was nothing short of sensational. He unleashed a six off James Neesham, reaching his inaugural half-century off a mere 25 balls in the ninth over, as Pakistan also crossed the century mark. He followed up with three consecutive boundaries off Ben Sears and completed his century in the 16th over with just 44 balls faced. With only two runs required for victory, Nawaz struck a four off the very next delivery, clinching the win with 24 balls to spare.

By finishing the chase in just 16 overs, Pakistan shattered the record for the fastest-ever 200-plus run chase in all men’s T20s. The previous record was held by South Africa, who achieved 208-2 in 17.4 overs against the West Indies in 2007. Pakistan’s prior best was also eclipsed by two overs, having chased down 205 against South Africa in 18 overs back in 2021.

This impressive win breathes new life into the five-match series, narrowing the scoreline to 2-1 with two matches left to play.