Babar Azam smashes century against Sri Lanka

RAWALPINDI: Babar Azam struck a superb century to put Pakistan in a commanding position during the second ODI against Sri Lanka — his first in almost 806 days and 83 innings, with the last one coming against Nepal in August 2023.

The Pakistan skipper reached his hundred with eight fours, anchoring the innings with trademark composure and precision.

With this knock, Babar has become the second Pakistani player with the most ODI centuries, equalling Saeed Anwar’s record of 20 hundreds in the format.

The Pakistan skipper’s latest milestone further cements his place among the country’s greatest ODI batters.

By the end of the 46th over, Pakistan had reached 276 for 2, and the momentum continued as the hosts moved to 283 for 2 in the 47th over, with Babar guiding the chase from the front.

His century has significantly strengthened Pakistan’s position as they push towards the 289-run target set earlier by Sri Lanka.

In the second One Day International, Sri Lanka has set Pakistan a target of 289 runs to win.

Batting first at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Sri Lanka scored 288 runs for the loss of 8 wickets. Janith Liyanage played a brilliant innings of 54 runs, while Kamindu Mendis added 44 and Sudhira Samaraweera scored 42. Wanindu Hasaranga remained unbeaten on 37.