AFG vs PAK: Babar Azam And Imam-ul-Haq Create New Record To Become Most Successful Batting Pair For Pakistan In ODIs
Published - 25 Aug 2023, 02:07 PM
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Pakistan’s captain Babar Azam and opener Imam-ul-Haq achieved a milestone in one-day internationals (ODIs) during the second match against Afghanistan. Babar Azam and Imam-ul-Haq surpassed the partnership record of veteran batters Mohammad Yousuf and Younis Khan.
The batting duo added a 108-run partnership during Pakistan’s one-wicket victory over Afghanistan at the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Stadium in Hambantota on Thursday, August 24. The Men in Green successfully chased down the target of 301 runs with one ball to spare.
Babar Azam And Imam-ul-Haq Create New Record
Babar and Imam formed a substantial 100-run partnership for the second wicket, helping to stabilize the innings. However, the Pakistan skipper was eventually dismissed after contributing 53 runs off 66 balls. Following Babar’s wicket, the team collapsed from 170-2 to 211-6.
Babar and Imam have achieved a 100-run partnership in ODIs ten times. They broke the previous record set by Yousuf and Younis, who had created a 100-run partnership nine times. Yousuf also recorded eight 100-run partnerships with Inzamam ul Haq in 50-over cricket.
Most Hundred Run Partnerships For Pakistan In ODIs
- Babar Azam and Imam-ul-Haq – 10 times
- Mohammad Yousuf and Younis Khan – 9 times
- Inzamam-ul-Haq and Mohammad Yousuf – 8 times
Pakistan Secured A Series Victory
Earlier, Afghanistan posted a total of 300 runs after choosing to bat first. Rahmanullah Gurbaz scored 151 runs, including 14 fours and three sixes. However, they struggled to score quickly at the end as the Pakistan bowlers made a comeback and took wickets.
In response, Pakistan lost their first wicket when the score was 52 runs. Shadad Khan scored a crucial 48 runs off 35 runs at lower down the order to help the team reach close to the target. Naseem Shah scored the final runs to guide the team to a series victory.
Just Tried To Get Partnerships – Babar Azam
Speaking after the game, Babar Azam said that they tried to add partnerships and accelerate at the end of the inning. Babar hoped to continue his winning momentum into the final ODI of the three-match series.
“All credit to boys. When we’re starting with the bat, we just tried to get partnerships. Just wanted to see after 40 overs where we stand. Had the quality of batting later on. In crunch situations, Naseem has performed well. Always have to improve in cricket. You’re never satisfied. Have to play the natural game. Looking forward to the last match. Looking to carry the momentum,” Babar said.
