Fakhar Zaman becomes first Pakistani batsman to score a double ton in limited-overs cricket

Left-handed opener Fakhar Zaman became the first Pakistani batsman to score double hundred in limited-overs cricket. He broke Saeed Anwar record of 194 runs in the fourth game of one-day series against Zimbabwe with unbeaten 210 runs. Zaman smashed 210 runs off 156 balls with the help of twenty-four fours and five sixes. The game also saw a Pakistani pair produce 300 run-opening partnership in limited-overs cricket. Imam-ul-Haq also smashed a superb century as he added 304 runs in 42 overs with Fakhar Zaman.

Pakistan also registered their highest score of 399 for 1 courtesy of a splendid double century from Fakhar Zaman. Opener Imam-ul-Haq also produced a splendid century. The previous best total for Pakistan came against Bangladesh in 2010 as they managed to score 385 for 7 in 50 overs.

By scoring a double ton, Zaman has become the sixth batsman to reach the landmark in limited-overs cricket besides Rohit Sharma, Martin Guptill, Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag and Chris Gayle. His unbeaten innings of 210 runs is the first highest score by a batsman in limited-overs cricket. The pugnacious left-hander smashed a boundary to bring up his 200 off 148 balls and received a round of applause from his team-mates in the dressing room.

The 28-year old has scored consistently for Pakistan on this trip. He was named the player of the competition in the T20 Tri-series featuring Zimbabwe and Australia. He scored 278 runs in the competition to help Pakistan clinch T20 Tri-series trophy. In the one-day series, he has put up amazing numbers with the bat including a double ton in the fourth game of the series.

The opening stand of 304 runs by Pakistani openers Imam-ul-Haq and Fakhar Zaman was another record as they managed to beat the previous record of 286 runs produced by Sri Lanka opening pair of Upul Tharanga against England in a one-day game played in 2006.