Babar Azam’s first international century in over two years led Pakistan to a decisive victory over Sri Lanka in the second one-day international (ODI) held on March 15, 2024, in Rawalpindi. The match concluded with Pakistan successfully chasing down a target of 289, winning by eight wickets. Babar’s impressive innings of an unbeaten 102 off 119 balls marked a significant personal milestone and secured a 2-0 lead for Pakistan in the three-match series.
Sri Lanka batted first, managing to post a total of 288-8 on a pitch that favored batting. Despite a promising start, six of their top seven batters were unable to convert their chances into substantial scores. The match took place under a cloud of uncertainty, as Sri Lankan players contemplated leaving the country following a tragic suicide bombing in Islamabad that resulted in 12 fatalities. However, Sri Lanka Cricket ultimately directed the team to complete the series after receiving assurances regarding security from the Pakistan Cricket Board.
Babar entered the match without an international century for 83 innings, a drought that extended more than 800 days since his last hundred against Nepal in the Asia Cup in August 2023. Reflecting on his milestone, he stated, “I had been waiting for this (century) like the fans… I kept the belief up.” His determination was evident as he faced Sri Lanka’s spin threat, particularly from Wanindu Hasaranga, who ended the match wicketless with figures of 0-35.
Babar’s half-century arrived off 68 balls, with just three boundaries, as he gradually built his confidence. He completed his century with a single off Pramod Madushan, reaching the milestone in 115 balls and hitting eight fours. The crowd responded enthusiastically, chanting “Babar, Babar” in celebration of the moment, which also marked his 20th ODI century, equaling the record set by Saeed Anwar for Pakistan.
The match was characterized by a strong opening partnership between Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub, who contributed 77 runs in just 58 balls. Zaman, who scored 78, was fortunate to survive several dropped catches. His partnership with Babar proved crucial, as they added 100 runs together, effectively taking control of the game.
Mohammad Rizwan also played a vital role with an unbeaten 51 off 54 balls, partnering with Babar in a 112-run stand that sealed the win for Pakistan. Stand-in captain Salman Ali Agha praised the team’s batting performance, stating, “It’s a complete batting performance from us. We had three very good partnerships.”
Sri Lanka’s innings began with a decent start, as Kamil Mishara and Pathum Nissanka put together a 51-run partnership during the batting powerplay. However, Nissanka was run out in an unexpected turn of events, which triggered a decline in their innings. Leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed, who returned from illness, was instrumental in dismantling the Sri Lankan batting lineup, claiming three key wickets and reducing the visitors to 98-4.
Despite a resilient effort from Sadeera Samarawickrama and Janith Liyanage, who added 61 runs for the fifth wicket, Sri Lanka struggled to maintain momentum. Haris Rauf continued his strong form, following up his four-wicket haul in the first ODI with three more wickets for 66 runs, including the crucial dismissal of Kamindu Mendis.
Asalanka expressed disappointment over missed opportunities, citing dropped catches and a lack of discipline in the field. “A lot of wides and extras in the first two overs… it’s really hard to come back on these wickets,” he remarked.
The series will conclude with the third ODI on March 17, 2024, where Sri Lanka will seek to salvage pride against a confident Pakistan side.
