22-year-old Hasan Nawaz smashes Babar’s T20I record for fastest century

Opening batsman Hasan Nawaz shattered Babar Azam’s record, becoming the fastest Pakistani to score a T20 International century on Friday.

Nawaz's century led Pakistan to a crucial victory against during the third T20I against New Zealand at Eden Park, Auckland.

The 22-year-old reached his century in just 44 balls , smashing 10 fours and 7 sixes.

Hasan Nawaz remained unbeaten on 105 runs and was named Player of the Match for his outstanding performance.

Notably, this was only the third T20 International of Hasan Nawaz's career.

WATCH: Haris Rauf stuns with one-handed catch in Pak vs NZ third T20

In the third T20I in Auckland, Pakistan made a blazing start while chasing 205 runs, with openers Mohammad Haris and Hassan Nawaz displaying an aggressive approach. The duo provided a solid 67-run stand, with Pakistan racing to 51 runs in just the first four overs.

Captain Salman Ali Agha also delivered an impressive performance, remaining unbeaten on 51 runs off 31 balls, which included six fours and two sixes.

Earlier, after winning the toss and opting to bowl first, Pakistan struck early. Shaheen Afridi, with the help of a brilliant catch by Haris Rauf, dismissed New Zealand’s opener for just three runs in the first over.

For this crucial match, Pakistan made two changes to their lineup: Mohammad Ali and Jehandad Khan were dropped, while Abrar Ahmed and Abbas Afridi were included in the playing XI.