In a record-breaking display of power-hitting, Finn Allen's phenomenal 137 led New Zealand to a commanding 45-run victory over Pakistan in the third T20I at University Oval, Dunedin. Allen's second T20I hundred, featuring 16 sixes, propelled New Zealand to a formidable total of 224 for 7, ultimately securing an unassailable series lead with two games still to play.
New Zealand's Dominance:
New Zealand continued their aggressive batting approach, with Allen taking center stage with a breathtaking innings. The hosts were put in to bat for the third consecutive time, and Allen's onslaught shattered records. His 137 off 62 balls included a record-breaking 16 sixes, surpassing Brendon McCullum's previous highest individual T20I score for New Zealand. The assault, marked by powerful pulls and golf-like swings, allowed New Zealand to post an imposing total.
Allen's Record-Breaking Innings:
Finn Allen's innings was a display of sheer dominance. He reached his 26-ball fifty and a 48-ball century, amassing a total of 373 runs from five T20I innings this year. Allen capitalized on Pakistan's short-pitched deliveries, consistently finding the boundary with aggressive strokes. His 137, featuring five fours and a staggering 16 sixes, included a remarkable 95 runs scored on the leg side.
Wickets Fall After Allen:
Despite Allen's heroics, New Zealand lost wickets in quick succession in the final overs. Mark Chapman, Mitchell Santner, and Glenn Phillips fell within seven deliveries, restricting New Zealand to 224, just short of their first T20I score of 226.
Pakistan's Chase:
In pursuit of 225, Pakistan faced an uphill battle as wickets fell at regular intervals. Tim Southee's early strikes and Mohammad Rizwan's brief support to Babar Azam kept the chase alive. However, once Rizwan fell in the eighth over, Babar was left to anchor the innings. Fakhar Zaman's dismissal and wickets tumbling at crucial moments dented Pakistan's hopes.
Babar's Lone Battle:
Babar Azam continued his sublime form, notching up his third consecutive fifty in the series. His elegant strokes and wristy flicks showcased his class, but the lack of substantial partnerships around him proved challenging. Azam Khan's dismissal and Iftikhar Ahmed's run-out further dented Pakistan's chances.
New Zealand's Bowling Impact:
Tim Southee and Mitchell Santner played crucial roles with the ball, claiming key wickets to keep the pressure on Pakistan. Lockie Ferguson's dismissal of Fakhar Zaman and Ish Sodhi's crucial wickets further contributed to Pakistan falling short of the target.
Conclusion:
Finn Allen's record-breaking innings and New Zealand's collective performance secured a 3 - 0 lead in the T20I series, with two matches still to be played. Pakistan, despite Babar Azam's brilliance, found themselves unable to chase down the imposing target. The series now moves forward with New Zealand firmly in control.
Result: New Zealand wins by 45 runs. Series Score: New Zealand 3 - 0 Pakistan.