Babar Azam has etched his name in Pakistan’s cricketing history on Thursday, becoming the first Pakistani batter to register 30 or more List-A centuries.
His brilliant 104-run knock guided Allied Bank Stallions to a victory over Engro Dolphins in the Champions One-Day Cup.
The 29-year-old’s unbeaten century off 100 balls, highlighted by seven fours and three sixes, came as a major relief after a recent slump in form.
His previous half-century in Test matches dates back several months, and his performances in the last two ICC Cricket World Cups were also below par.
“Babar Azam smashed his 30th List-A century, becoming the first Pakistan batter to register 30 or more List-A centuries,” the Pakistan Cricket Board said in a statement.
The second-highest List-A century maker for Pakistan is Khurram Manzoor, with 27 centuries, followed closely by legendary Saeed Anwar, who has 26 centuries.
The Dolphins, unable to chase down the 272-run target set by Stallions, were bowled out for a paltry 97 in 25 overs. Mehran Mumtaz and Jahandad Khan claimed three wickets each for the Stallions.
Yasir Khan, Shan Masood, and Tayyab Tahir also made significant contributions to Stallions’ total. Hussain Talat and Haris Rauf formed a crucial partnership to strengthen the Stallions’ position.
With this victory, Stallions secured their place in the playoff stage, joining UMT Markhors and Lake City Panthers. The Dolphins, on the other hand, suffered their third consecutive defeat and are now battling for the fourth playoff spot.
