Pakistan crush New Zealand by nine wickets in third T20I, keeping series alive

Pakistan has bounced back strongly in the third T20I at Dunedin, defeating New Zealand by nine wickets in a dominant run chase to keep the five-match series alive at 2-1.

Pakistan won the toss and invited the host team to bat first.

New Zealand posted a challenging total of 204 in 19.5 overs. Mark Chapman starred with a brilliant 94 off 44 balls, smashing 11 fours and four sixes. Michael Bracewell played a quickfire 31 (18), while Tim Seifert contributed 19 (9).

For Pakistan, Haris Rauf and Abbas Afridi were the pick of the bowlers, taking three wickets each. Shaheen Afridi and Abrar Ahmed claimed two wickets apiece.

Pakistan's batters made light work of the target, chasing 205 down in just 16 overs with only one wicket down.

Hassan Nawaz stole the show with a stunning 105 off 45 balls*, hitting 10 fours and seven sixes. Salman Ali Agha remained unbeaten on 51 (31), while Mohammad Haris provided an explosive start with 41 (20).

New Zealand bowlers struggled at the pitch, with Jacob Duffy taking the only wicket.

With this dominant win, Pakistan have kept their hopes alive in the series. The fourth T20I on March 23 is set to be a crucial battle as New Zealand lead by 2-1.