Sami Aslam’s 64

Sami Aslam notched up 64 against India at the Under 19 World Cup in Dubai today. Pakistan were chasing a record target in Under 19 World Cup history against the arch rivals which no side had chased against them before in the competition’s long history given the frequency of the event as one held every 2 years. A lot of hopes were pinned on their star performer at the under 19 international level over the last 3 years.

Aslam started watchfully and at one stage was 4 from 24 deliveries, but imperatively this showed his ability to withstand pressure when runs were not flowing, when bowlers were on top, when he was put under a stranglehold in terms of scoring and his refusal to panic in difficulty; knowing he can battle through an examining patch and safely escape unharmed, with an opportunity to cash in more favourably later on.

Sami drove gloriously soon after which was just the confidence booster he needed to get his innings going after circumspect play following impressive new ball bowling from the Indians.

Not the most muscular of players, Sami swept to good effect against the spinners and chipped balls into vacant spaces.

He was controlling the innings and appeared to be the difference between the two closely matched sides before an unfortunate run out cost his team dearly as Sami departed in frustrating fashion given how calmly he had played and his importance to the team. India knew the significance of the wicket, celebrating ecstatically. Sami known to be on the reserved side in demeanour; gave his batting partner who sold him a stern piece of his mind as he began to trudge off.