Fakhar Zaman equalled on Saturday former all-rounder Shahid Khan Afridi's record of smashing 11 sixes in a single ODI innings for Pakistan.
In the annals of cricket history, records are etched with the names of legends who have left an indelible mark on the sport.Among these records, one that held firm for decades was Shahid Afridi's remarkable feat of striking 11 sixes in a single one-day international (ODI) innings against Sri Lanka in 1996.
It was a benchmark of power-hitting excellence that seemed insurmountable. Fast forward to the present day, and the cricketing world bore witness to the rise of another power-hitting phenomenon—Fakhar Zaman.
The stage was set in Bengaluru, where Pakistan faced a formidable target in their ODI clash with New Zealand. What followed was nothing short of a breathtaking spectacle of audacious six-hitting, a display that would etch Fakhar Zaman's name alongside the great Shahid Afridi.
– Matching Afridi's Legend –
Fakhar Zaman's remarkable performance saw him equal Shahid Afridi's long-standing record of 11 sixes in a single ODI innings for Pakistan. In the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium, the boundary ropes bore witness to a relentless assault as Zaman cleared them 11 times. It was a masterclass in power-hitting, a breathtaking display of audacity, and a testament to his remarkable talent.
Shahid Afridi, the man who had set the bar high with his 11 sixes in 1996, could now welcome a worthy companion at the pinnacle of this remarkable record. The cricketing world marvelled at the audacity of Fakhar Zaman, who had etched his name beside a legend and displayed the potential to create a legacy of his own.
– Prowess as six-hitter –
Fakhar Zaman's achievement in equaling Afridi's record was not an isolated incident. The swashbuckling opener had already showcased his prowess as a six-hitter on previous occasions. Notably, he unleashed ten sixes in an ODI against South Africa in 2021, establishing his reputation as a remarkable six-hitter in the modern era of cricket.
It was a testament to his ability to dominate bowlers and clear boundaries with ease. Fakhar Zaman's power-hitting had become a hallmark of his batting style, often leaving opponents struggling to contain the fury of his strokes.
– Fastest Century in World Cup –
While equaling Afridi's record was a significant achievement, Fakhar Zaman's remarkable innings held more surprises. In the same match, he etched his name in history by claiming the title of the fastest century for Pakistan in a World Cup. He reached the coveted milestone in just 63 balls, boasting a striking rate of 157.81. It was an innings that combined explosive power with swift execution, enthralling cricket fans worldwide.
– The Rain-Induced Triumph –
Despite Fakhar Zaman's heroics, the match was not without its share of drama. The rain, a frequent protagonist in cricketing battles, made its presence felt and eventually forced an abandonment of the game. However, Pakistan emerged as the victors through the DLS method, securing a 21-run win.
– Lifeline in World Cup –
This victory, albeit rain-aided, provided a crucial lifeline for Babar Azam's Pakistan in the World Cup. The team had entered the match facing a must-win situation to keep their semi-final hopes alive. Fakhar Zaman's audacious sixes and record-breaking century had not only written a new chapter in cricket history but also reignited the team's prospects in the tournament.
As Fakhar Zaman walked off the field, he left behind an enduring legacy—a legacy of power-hitting that not only matched a legend but also inspired a new generation of cricketers. The record books had been updated, and in them, Fakhar Zaman's name stood proudly beside that of Shahid Afridi.
