Pakistan captain Babar Azam has finally broken his 807-day international century drought, hitting a match-winning unbeaten 102 in the second ODI against Sri Lanka. This significant century, his 20th in the ODI format, not only ended a long wait but also saw him achieve a major milestone for Pakistan cricket.
This hundred, his first in 84 innings across all formats since August 2023, reaffirms Babar’s status as one of the world’s leading ODI batsmen. He displayed exceptional skill and temperament to guide Pakistan to a dominant eight-wicket victory and clinch the series.
**A Long-Awaited Celebration**
Fans and pundits alike eagerly awaited Babar Azam’s next international century after his last one in August 2023. The 807-day period without a three-figure score became a talking point, but his flawless 102 not out against Sri Lanka provided a resounding answer. He paced his innings expertly, building momentum towards the target.
**Pakistan’s Joint-Highest ODI Centurion**
With his 20th ODI century, Babar Azam now stands alongside the legendary Saeed Anwar as Pakistan’s joint-highest century-maker in the format. This remarkable achievement, reached in just 136 innings, places him third on the all-time list for the fastest to 20 ODI tons globally.
**Anchoring a Successful Chase**
Pakistan faced pressure in their chase of 289, but Babar Azam’s presence at the crease was a stabilizing force. His crucial 112-run partnership with Mohammad Rizwan laid the foundation for a comfortable win, allowing Pakistan to chase down the total in 48.2 overs.
**Series Clinched in Style**
Sri Lanka set a target of 288/8, with notable contributions from Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, and Wanindu Hasaranga. However, Pakistan’s batting lineup, spearheaded by Babar Azam’s brilliant century and supported by Fakhar Zaman (78) and Mohammad Rizwan (51 not out), comfortably chased it down to win by eight wickets and secure the ODI series.