The 33-year-old southpaw showcased his prowess by smashing a boundary followed by a six off the deliveries from spinner Mitchell Santnersecuring his 11th century in his 81st one-day international appearance.
Zaman unleashed a barrage of nine sixes and six well-timed boundaries on his way to a century, completing it in just 63 balls. This remarkable feat marked the fastest century by a Pakistani batsman in the history of the World Cup.
Their pursuit was not only about chasing victory but also enhancing their net run-rate, as they aimed to keep their semi-final aspirations alive.
At the time when rain interrupted play, Zaman remained unbeaten at 106, while skipper Babar Azam was not out at 47, and Pakistan had reached 160-1 in the 22nd over.
Before this match, Pakistan had three wins and four losses in seven games.
Zaman played the first game of this World Cup against the Netherlands before poor form and a knee injury kept him out of the side.
He only returned in Pakistan’s last game against Bangladesh, smashing 81 in a seven-wicket victory in Kolkata.
Earlier, New Zealand made 401-6 with Rachin Ravindra hitting his third World Cup century and skipper Kane Williamson making 95.
(With AFP Inputs)
