Big Show theme music welcomes Azam Khan to the bat during 3rd T20I vs New Zealand
New Zealand delivered a dominant all-round performance today, crushing Pakistan by 45 runs in the 3rd T20I at the University Oval in Dunedin. This emphatic victory secures an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series with two games remaining.
The architect of New Zealand’s triumph was opener Finn Allen, who unleashed a record-breaking century. Allen smashed 16 sixes in his whirlwind 109-run knock, rewriting the national record for most sixes in a T20I inning previously held by Brendon McCullum. He tore into the Pakistani attack with fearless aggression, dispatching boundaries at his will. His range of shots was simply breathtaking- powerful pulls, elegant cuts, and audacious scoops over the wicketkeeper. The bowlers simply had no answer to his berserk onslaught.
His belligerent innings propelled New Zealand to a mammoth 224/7, the highest T20I total against Pakistan on home soil. In response, Pakistan’s chase faltered from the outset. The top order crumbled against disciplined bowling from the Black Caps, with only captain Babar Azam making a score of substance, which was what Pakistan needed to chase down New Zealand’s huge total.
This emphatic victory showcases New Zealand’s burgeoning T20I prowess and puts them in a commanding position to inflict a 5-0 whitewash on the visitors. Pakistan, on the other hand, will want to bring about a significant turnaround in the remaining matches to salvage some pride.
DJ plays Big Show music for Azam Khan
One incident that drew the attention of fans and pundits alike was the DJ’s decision to play the entrance theme song of professional wrestler Big Show when Azam Khan came out to bat. This was likely a reference to Khan’s imposing physique. Some fans found the incident humorous, while others criticized it as disrespectful.
Beyond the music, Khan’s performance in the series has drawn scrutiny. With just 22 runs across three matches, he hasn’t quite lived up to expectations. His power, particularly suited to New Zealand’s small grounds, hasn’t materialized, leaving fans and experts disappointed. It remains to be seen if Azam can end the series on a high and help Pakistan notch up a win or two.
