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After a dismal batting performance in the first ODI, where they were bowled out for just 59 runs, Afghanistan staged a remarkable comeback in the second ODI against Pakistan, posting a formidable total of 300/5 on the scoreboard, primarily on the back of Rahmanullah Gurbaz‘s exceptional batting display. Gurbaz played a pivotal role in Afghanistan’s resurgence, crafting an entertaining century, amassing 151 runs from as many deliveries, including 14 fours and 3 sixes. He received valuable support from the reliable opening batsman, Ibrahim Zadran, who contributed 80 runs from 101 balls to the partnership.
Gurbaz initially showed caution in his approach but eventually unleashed a flurry of fantastic shots that left Pakistan’s bowling attack baffled and frustrated. His innings displayed maturity and composure as he secured his fifth ODI century.
Gurbaz makes history by breaking MS Dhoni’s record
Furthermore, Gurbaz’s remarkable innings obliterated several long-standing historical records, including a venerable 18-year-old record previously held by the former Indian captain, MS Dhoni. By amassing 151 runs against Pakistan, Gurbaz etched his name in history as the first wicketkeeper-batter in ODI cricket to achieve such a milestone against the formidable Men in Green. This remarkable feat had eluded all other wicketkeeper-batter facing Pakistan’s bowling prowess, with the closest being Dhoni, who had mustered 148 runs against Pakistan during a bilateral clash in Visakhapatnam in 2005.
Gurbaz outdoes Babar Azam with remarkable achievement
In addition to this milestone, Gurbaz achieved another remarkable distinction, eclipsing Babar Azam, the current No. 1 ODI batsman in the world. Gurbaz secured his fifth ODI century in just 23 innings, an achievement that outpaced the remarkable Babar, who had reached this milestone in 25 innings. In this regard, Quinton de Kock and Imam-ul-Haq, with both achieving this feat in 19 innings, managed to outpace Gurbaz. Moreover, former Sri Lanka opener Upul Tharanga and India’s Shikhar Dhawan have achieved this milestone in 28 innings, while the illustrious Hashim Amla is also a prominent name on this esteemed list.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz surpasses Babar Azam to become the 3rd fastest to 5 ODI centuries. pic.twitter.com/BX5B41b4RV
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) August 24, 2023
Afghanistan’s anticipated victory turns into a downbeat conclusion
Speaking of the game, following Gurbaz’s departure, Pakistan’s bowlers executed a commendable resurgence in the closing overs. However, Afghanistan successfully crossed the 300-run mark within their allotted 50 overs. Gurbaz shone as the top scorer, while Zadran contributed a valuable runs too.
In Pakistan’s chase, the opening pair of Fakhar Zaman and Imam-ul-Haq laid a solid foundation with a 52-run partnership for the first wicket. Fakhar quickly added 30 runs to the tally, while Imam continued his impressive form, notching up another half-century and anchoring Pakistan’s innings. Together with Babar, they formed a crucial 118-run partnership for the second wicket, with Babar marking his 100th ODI innings by adding 53 runs.
Nevertheless, the game’s equilibrium was restored when Fazalhaq Farooqi dismissed Babar, and Mujeeb Ur Rahman accounted for the crucial wicket of Imam. Pakistan’s middle-order struggled to maintain control, with the exceptional all-rounder Shadab Khan briefly reigniting Pakistan’s hopes with an impressive 48 runs from 35 balls. Nevertheless, his innings was cut short by a run-out on the very first ball of the decisive final over, orchestrated by Fazalhaq at the non-striker’s end.
In an electrifying climax, Naseem Shah stepped up, delivering two pivotal boundaries, including the game-winning boundary on the fifth delivery of the last over, with Pakistan requiring just three runs for victory. Amidst this intense battle, Farooqi emerged as Afghanistan’s leading wicket-taker with three scalps, while Mohammad Nabi made his mark with two dismissals.
