< >

Cricket World Player of the Week - Babar Azam

©CWM

Pakistan captain Babar Azam (196) struck the highest score by a captain in the fourth innings of a Test match as he guided the hosts to a heroic draw in Karachi.

Pakistan were staring at a big defeat in the second Test match at the National Stadium in Karachi when they were bowled out for just 148 in response to Australia's total of 556 for 9 declared.

However, the team batted out of its skin in the last innings, occupying the crease for 171.4 overs which is the fifth longest by a team in the fourth innings of a Test match.

Babar Azam was finally dismissed on 196 which is now the record for the highest score by a captain in the fourth innings of a Test match. He batted on for 603 minutes which is the second longest fourth innings in terms of minutes.

Michael Atherton previously held both these records, having made 185 not out against South Africa in 1995 in the fourth innings and batted for 643 minutes during the historic knock.

Babar Azam's 196 has also become the highest individual score for Pakistan in the last innings of a Test match, getting past Younis Khan's 171* against Sri Lanka in 2015.

Babar faced 425 deliveries for his 196 runs which is the fourth longest in terms of balls faced. He had a 228-run partnership with opener Abdullah Shafique which is now the second highest stand for the third wicket in the 4th innings and the second highest for Pakistan in the last innings of a Test match.

The heroic knock from Babar Azam and a century from Rizwan has ensured that the series is poised at 0-0 going into the decider in Lahore.

I will remember this innings for many reasons. Special knock by @imabd28, @iMRizwanPak and my entire team showed massive character.
Thank you Karachi, you were spectacular! ?? pic.twitter.com/zl6uHcwj9i
— Babar Azam (@babarazam258) March 16, 2022