Article Posted on 26 September, 2023

In the realm of International Cricket Council (ICC) events, Pakistan's cricketers have left an indelible mark with their breathtaking performances. From Babar Azam's majestic century against New Zealand in 2019 to Shaheen Afridi's fiery spell against India in 2021, Pakistan has witnessed numerous unforgettable moments on the global stage.

Today, we turn our attention to those crucial cameos by Pakistan's batsmen in ICC events—those brief, explosive innings that changed the course of matches.

5. Shahid Afridi's Blitz - 25 off 12 vs India, Champions Trophy 2004

The 2004 Champions Trophy witnessed a riveting clash between arch-rivals India and Pakistan. Chasing 201 for victory, Pakistan found themselves in a precarious situation at 152 for 6. With just four wickets in hand and 49 runs required off the final 10 overs, Pakistan needed a hero. That hero emerged in the form of Shahid Afridi, who played a scintillating cameo of 25 off 12 balls. Afridi's fireworks paved the way for a Pakistan victory, making it one of the most impactful innings of the tournament.

4. Mohammad Haris' Heroics - 31 off 18 vs Bangladesh, T20 World Cup 2022

In a must-win game against Bangladesh during the ICC T20 World Cup 2022, Pakistan's bowlers did their part by restricting their opponents to just 127 runs. However, the chase became nervy after the early losses of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan. Enter young wicket-keeper batsman Mohammad Haris, who joined forces with Shan Masood to steer Pakistan to victory. Haris contributed a crucial 31 off 18 balls, including two sixes and a boundary, securing Pakistan's spot in the semi-finals.

3. Moin Khan's Brilliance - 20 off 11 vs New Zealand, CWC 1992

In the semi-final of the 1992 Cricket World Cup, Pakistan faced a spirited New Zealand side. While the top and middle-order made substantial contributions, Pakistan still needed a finishing touch. This is where former captain and wicket-keeper Moin Khan played a pivotal role. Joining forces with Javed Miandad when Pakistan required 25 off 22 balls with only four wickets remaining, Moin Khan played a memorable cameo of 20 off 11 deliveries, sealing Pakistan's place in the final.

2. Asif Ali's Heroic Finish - 25* off 7 vs Afghanistan, T20 World Cup 2021

In the ICC T20 World Cup 2021, Pakistan faced a tough challenge from Afghanistan, needing 24 runs off the final two overs with Asif Ali and Shadab Khan at the crease. In a surprising move, Asif Ali refused a single on the last ball of the 18th over. What followed was even more astonishing. Asif Ali smashed four consecutive sixes off Karim Janat, snatching victory from Afghanistan's grasp. His unbeaten 25 off 7 balls will be remembered as one of the most impactful cameos in ICC event history.

1. Umar Gul's Miraculous Knock - 32 off 17 vs South Africa, T20 World Cup 2012

In the 2012 T20 World Cup encounter against South Africa, Pakistan was in dire straits. After bowling out South Africa for 136 runs, Pakistan's innings faltered, losing seven wickets for just 76 runs. Victory seemed unlikely. However, Umar Gul had different plans. Displaying remarkable batting prowess, Gul formed a 49-run partnership with Umar Akmal, guiding Pakistan to an astonishing win. His cameo of 32 off 17 balls remains one of the most miraculous knocks ever witnessed in an ICC event, a testament to Pakistan's never-say-die spirit.

These unforgettable cameos by Pakistan's batters have not only illuminated ICC events but also underscored the team's resilience and ability to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat.