NZ vs PAK third T20I: Pakistan’s Hasan Nawaz’s century keeps series alive against New Zealand

Pakistan's Nawaz shines with unbeaten century as they defeat New Zealand by nine wickets in T20 match.

Hasan Nawaz made an unbeaten 105 from 45 balls as Pakistan beat New Zealand by nine wickets in the third Twenty20 international Friday to keep alive the five-match series.

Pakistan won the toss and was able to bowl first, reversing the trend of the first two matches which New Zealand won by nine and five wickets.

Nawaz was supported in his first century by captain Salman Ali Agha, who made 51 from 31 balls in an unbroken partnership of 133 for the second wicket. Pakistan finished at 207-1, running down the home team's total of 204 with four full overs to spare to inflict New Zealand's heaviest T20 loss in terms of wickets.

Nawaz made ducks in both of the first two matches.

“I failed in the first two games and I thank the team for backing me,” he said through an interpreter. "When I went out to bat I wanted to score my first international run.

“After I scored the first run the pressure was released and I wanted to win the game.”

Mark Chapman made 94 from 44 balls before New Zealand was bowled out with one ball remaining in their 20 overs. Chapman hit 11 fours and four sixes but lacked support.