Fakhar Zaman Becomes First Pakistan Batsman to Smash ODI Double Ton

The swashbuckling batsman from Pakistan, Fakhar Zaman continued his outstanding form as he became the first batsman from the country on Friday (July 20) to clinch a double hundred in One-day Internationals.

Meanwhile, Zaman along with Imam-ul-Haq added a record 304-run partnership for the opening wicket against Zimbabwe. Opting to bat first, Pakistan went all guns blazing against a tattered Zimbabwean side.

Imam and Zaman made most of the opportunity and posted the first 300-run opening stand in One-day innings. However, Zimbabwe made first inroads in 42 overs when Iman fell to Wellington Masakadza after scoring brilliant 122-ball 113.

Zaman meanwhile, went on to become the first Pakistani batsman and sixth overall to score a double hundred. The elite list includes Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, Rohit Sharma, Chris Gayle and Martin Guptill are the others to achieve this feat.

Previously, Saeed Anwar (194) had the record of highest ODI score by a Pakistani batsman. The southpaw registered this score against India in 1997.

Among the double centurions in One-day internationals, Rohit Sharma is the only one to do it thrice. He also holds the record for the highest ODI score ever. Rohit smashed 264 off 173 balls at Eden Gardens in Kolkata against Sri Lanka.

The southpaw Fakhar Zaman ran an absolute carnage against the hosts’ bowlers as he remained unbeaten on 210 runs. His knock came in 156 balls including 24 boundaries and five towering sixes.

Banking on the strong opening stand, Pakistan posted 399 runs at the halfway mark. Furthermore, explosive batter Asif Ali also chipped in with a useful half-century as they posted a staggering total.

In will be an uphill task for Elton Chigambura led side who are currently losing 3-0 in the ODI series.

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