Pakistan’s captain, Babar Azam, has ended a prolonged 807-day wait for an international century, scoring a magnificent unbeaten 102 in the second ODI against Sri Lanka. This century marks his 20th in the ODI format and sees him equal a significant record previously held by Pakistan legend Saeed Anwar.
His return to scoring big hundreds was a much-anticipated event, spanning 84 innings across all formats since his last century in August 2023. Babar’s innings was a testament to his class and ability to perform under pressure, guiding Pakistan to a crucial series-winning victory.
**Breaking the Century Drought**
The wait for Babar Azam’s next international hundred felt like an eternity for fans. After his last century in August 2023, a period of 807 days elapsed without him reaching the three-figure mark. His unbeaten 102 against Sri Lanka was a masterful display, demonstrating patience, strokeplay, and the ability to anchor a chase.
**Matching Saeed Anwar’s ODI Record**
With his superb knock, Babar Azam has now registered 20 ODI centuries, drawing level with Saeed Anwar, another luminary of Pakistani cricket. This achievement places Babar as Pakistan’s joint-highest century scorer in One Day Internationals. His rapid ascent to this milestone, achieving it in just 136 innings, positions him third globally for the fastest to 20 ODI tons.
**Key Partnership Secures Series Win**
Pakistan found themselves under pressure during the chase of 289, but Babar Azam’s composure was a game-changer. His substantial partnership of 112 runs with fellow batsman Mohammad Rizwan provided the stability and momentum needed for Pakistan to seal the victory. The pair were instrumental in steering the team home with over an over to spare.
**Match Highlights**
In the end, Pakistan comfortably chased down Sri Lanka’s total of 288/8, securing an eight-wicket win and clinching the ODI series. Babar Azam’s unbeaten century was the centerpiece of the chase, complemented by valuable contributions from Fakhar Zaman (78) and Mohammad Rizwan (51 not out). Sri Lanka’s efforts, including resilient batting from Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, and Wanindu Hasaranga, were not enough to prevent defeat.
