Babar Azam ends century drought after 84 innings, creates all-time ODI record for Pakistan
Babar Azam notched up his 20th century today in the second ODI against Sri Lanka. With this ton, he also ended his century drought in international cricket after a stunning 84 innings. His last ton for Pakistan came back in 2023 Asia Cup against Nepal when he had scored 151 runs. His form in ODIs had also come under the scanner as he was averaging under 14 in last six innings. But Babar managed to bury all his past ghosts with a brilliant ton and also helped Pakistan chase down 289 runs, sealing the three-match series with a game to go.
In the process, Babar Azam has also equalled Saeed Anwar to become the player with the most centuries for Pakistan in ODIs. Even Anwar scored 20 tons during his illustrious career in 247 ODIs, but Babar took only 139 matches in the format to notch up 20 centuries. With the drought finally ended, the former Pakistan captain will now hope for the centuries to become regular for Pakistan across formats.
Most centuries for Pakistan in ODIs
Babar Azam - 20
Saeed Anwar - 20
Mohammad Yousuf - 15
A Century After 807 Days
Babar’s last international hundred came in August 2023, during the Asia Cup. Since then, he went through 807 days without a century, a phase that drew widespread attention as the world waited for his return to big scores. His 102* ended that barren run emphatically. He played with patience initially, weathered the new ball, and then paced his innings perfectly as Pakistan chased down a target of 289.
Pakistan chase 289 runs with eight wickets in hand
As far as the match is concerned, Pakistan chased down the target of 289 runs without much fuss, thanks to a stunning century from Babar Azam. He came out to bat at number three in the 10th over of the innings and remained unbeaten till the end to take his team over the line in the 49th over of the innings. Fakhar Zaman also scored 78 runs, while Mohammad Rizwan also remained unbeaten on 51 as Pakistan sealed the series with a game in hand.
Earlier, Sri Lanka did well to post 288 runs on the board for the loss of eight wickets in their 50 overs. After a decent start, they collapsed to 98/4 but their lower-middle order batters - Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis and Wanindu Hasaranga - stitched vital partnerships to help Sri Lanka post a competitive total. However, their efforts didn't prove to be enough in the end.
