The historical test series between Pakistan and Australia just concluded in Pakistan, and here is my take of one of the most brave batting performances from Pakistan's skipper to save the Test match
At the end day three when Pak had a deficit of 490+ runs and Australia were 81/1.. everyone thought that next morning Australia will get some quick runs and will declare. The match was thought to be wrapped up on day 4. Even the likes of great Muhammad Yousuf had little belief in Pak batting.
But the Next day when Pakistan were 21/2 and were trailing by a mountain of runs, entered the man who although had proved his mettle in shorter formats but still had to prove his dominance in the classic format. Five and a half sessions were remaining in the match where it took less than two sessions for the first innings of Pakistan to fall a part.
Who will bat five sessions? was the question on every cricket lover Pakistani's mind. Everyone was hopeful but no one had the belief that Pakistan will remain afloat. Except one man, the captain of the ship, who still had to score a century in last two years. He believed in himself and took the weight of the sinking ship upon his shoulders.
The leading pace attack of the world, a legendary spin bowler, a tricky newbie legspinner, all hammered to crack the fragile wall of Pak batting but the Captain of the ship and his apprentice stood tall. He continued his master class and crossed the 100 run mile-stone. His roar said it all that how important it was for him but next moment he gestured his mates to keep believing as he was still there.
The day ended with flourished hopes but there was still disbelief. 'Baber gets out early in the morning whenever he resumes overnight'. But Baber and his partner had other plans. His partner fell just 4 short of the 100 but Baber was still there. He was joined by the local run machine Fawad Alam.But it looked as if Baber was playing on completely different pitch. Such was the composure of the man.
He scored his maiden 150 but the job was not done. Another of his soldier fell to the cunning Cummins. It was still a long way to go but this time his vice joined him and their partnership started to built. The second session of the day also completed without any further loss.
The captain reached 196. One boundary away from the maiden 200. Fans turned their cameras on. Only 13 overs of the last session remained. Fans could sense a draw, which was unimaginable two days ago. The fans just witnessed a historical knock unfolded in two days before their eyes. The knock which would be etched in history of cricket as one of all time favorites. The miracle was before their eyes. What could go wrong now. But what just happened? did it knicked the bat? is he out? How can this be? Oh the agony.
Next batsman got out on next ball and all of a sudden the gossips changed from 'Pakistan should go for chase' to 'Will we be able to pull this through?'. Such was the trust He earned through his master class.
Although his vice steered the ship out of the storm, scoring lone century of the day, but His 194 has placed the crown of 'all format great' on his head.
Baber the Azam, take a bow!
