Pakistan vs Australia, 2nd Test: Babar Azam slams these records
Pakistan cricket team skipper Babar Azam showed his class in a phenomenal 196-run knock in his side's draw versus Australia in the just-concluded second Test. Chasing 506, the hosts rode on Babar's stupendous crafted century to steal a valiant draw. Besides Babar's effort, Mohammad Rizwan slammed an unbeaten 104. Pakistan managed 443/7 in the end. Here we decode Babar's terrific stats.
Pakistan defy all odds to draw second Test against Australia
Australia rode on Usman Khawaja's brilliant 160 to post 556/9 in the first innings. Mitchell Starc (3/29) led the way as Pakistan were bowled out for 148. Australia saw Khawaja smash an unbeaten 44 to declare their innings (97/2). However, Pakistan held on in the run chase (443/7). Australia came close with the new ball late on Day 5. Khawaja also dropped Rizwan (104*).
Why does this story matter?
Australia dominated for four days in the second Test and almost sealed the match late on with some quick late wickets on Wednesday. However, Babar's grit and composure need to be highlighted. Rizwan's effort too was significant on a slow Karachi surface. Pakistan's graft and approach helped them escape with a draw. Babar stood tall and deflated the Aussies with a remarkable 196-run score.
Babar slams these terrific records
Babar's knock is the highest score by a captain in fourth innings of a Test. The previous best score was held by Mike Atherton, who slammed 185* versus South Africa in Johannesburg, 1995. As per ESPN cricinfo, Babar batted for 603 minutes. It is the second-longest fourth innings effort in terms of minutes batted in a Test. Atherton spent 643 minutes for his 185*.
Highest individual score for Pakistan in the fourth innings
As per ESPN cricinfo, Babar's 196-run show is now the highest individual score for Pakistan in the fourth innings of a Test. Babar surpassed Younis Khan's 171* against Sri Lanka in 2015. Babar's innings is the seventh-highest fourth-innings score in Test cricket. It's also the highest in the fourth innings versus the Aussies. Kumar Sangakkara held the record (192) in the 2007 Hobart Test.
Unique record for Babar
Babar scored 196 from 425 balls, hitting 21 fours and a six. As per statistician Mazher Arshad, the 425 deliveries faced by Babar is now the most deliveries consumed by a batter (4th innings) in the last 26 years of Test cricket.
Babar and Abdullah's record-breaking stand
Babar and Abdullah Shafique (96) added 228 runs for the third wicket. This is now the second-highest stand for Pakistan in the fourth innings in Asia after Shan Masood and Younis Khan's 242-run stand against Sri Lanka in 2015. It's also the second-highest stand overall for the third wicket in the fourth innings.
Sixth century for Babar in Tests
Babar slammed 36 and 196 in the second Test. He has raced to 2,729 runs at 45.48. Babar registered his sixth century in Tests. This is his best score in Tests. Babar has raced to 677 runs versus Australia at 42.31 (second century).
