Birthday Special: How the Name of Javed Miandad Emerges as a 32-year-old Wound?

Javed Miandad is one of the most successful players from Pakistan. However, even today, when India listen to his name, a 32-year-old giant come to their mind.

Meanwhile, the Ex-Pakistan skipper Miandad, who is celebrating his 61st birthday on Tuesday (June 12), was born in Karachi in 1957.

Although Miandad was not that classical in his approach at the crease, he had almost all shots in his book.

The quality batsman Miandad was also Pakistan’s youngest captain and arguably tactically strong in his role.

Miandad had some brilliant statistics to back his ability. In 124 Test matches, he struck 8,832 runs at a staggering average of 52.57 with the highest score of unbeaten 280*.

Being versatile as well, as evident by a marvellous One-day International career. He was one of the early pioneers of aggressive ODI running, shot placement and mental strength produced outstanding results.

In 233 games, he had 7,381 runs to his name with a healthy strike-rate.

Miandad also became Pakistan’s coach, where he had his ups and downs. After three stints in charge, he parted way in 2004 to make way for Bob Woolmer. However, in October 2008, Miandad declined an offer to become Pakistan’s coach yet again.

On his birthday, let us talk about the last ball six during the Sharjah final in 1986 against India.

Although, India have a better record against Pakistan in knock-out tournaments, but in 1986 it was Pakistan’s turn.

Miandad emerged as the protagonist in the final of Austral-Asia Cup which was akin to a thriller movie with numerous twists and turns.

India managed to post 250 after a 117-run opening stand between Sunil Gavaskar (92) and K Srikkanth (75). Wasim Akram and Imran Khan helped Pakistan restrict their neighbours to a modest total.

Pakistan had a poor start to their chase as they lost the first wicket with only nine runs on the board.

With wickets kept falling at regular intervals and at one point they were reduced to 215 for seven, Miandad took the responsibility of anchoring the innings with a well-timed century.

Meanwhile, the equation came down to 11 runs from the last six balls and young Chetan Sharma took the responsibility to bowl.

Sharma leaked seven runs from the five deliveries and Pakistan needed a boundary on the last ball to lift the trophy.

The last-ball incident saw Sharma missing the yorker by a few inches and Miandad smashed the low full toss for a six over mid-wicket.

Interestingly, it was Pakistan’s first major trophy and Javed Miandad became a national hero, thereon.

Here is the video:

Also read: Game halted due to a medical emergency in England