Dunedin, New Zealand cricketer Finn Allen stunned the cricketing world with a record-equalling performance in the third T20I against Pakistan, hitting 16 sixes and achieving the highest score by a Kiwi in men’s T20I internationals.

According to International Cricket Council, Allen’s remarkable innings in Dunedin included a total of 137 runs off 62 balls, surpassing Brendon McCullum’s previous New Zealand record of 123 runs. His six-hitting feat equalled Hazratullah Zazai’s record against Ireland in 2019. The young star’s performance propelled New Zealand to a substantial total of 224/7 in 20 overs at the University Oval.

New Zealand’s formidable score was bolstered by Tim Seifert’s contribution of 31 runs, but it was Allen’s explosive batting that dominated the match. Despite an early setback with Devon Conway’s dismissal by Haris Rauf, Allen’s partnership with Seifert quickly accelerated the scoring rate.

Rauf finished with 60 runs against his name despite claiming two wickets, while Mohammad Wasim emerged as the least expensive of the Pakistan bowlers. New Zealand maintained a scoring rate of over ten runs per over for the majority of their innings.

Allen’s departure to Zaman Khan did slow down the run rate slightly, with New Zealand adding just 13 runs in the final two overs. However, Pakistan’s response fell short by 45 runs, ending with 179/7. New Zealand’s bowling was effective, with Tim Southee taking 2/29 and four other bowlers each claiming a wicket. Babar Azam’s half-century for Pakistan was a notable performance but insufficient to chase down the imposing target set by New Zealand.

Finn Allen’s record-breaking innings and New Zealand’s overall performance marked a significant victory and a memorable moment in T20I cricket history.