'I was just waiting for that moment': Fakhar Zaman after Pakistan match India's 2002 Lord's record

Fakhar Zaman, the Pakistan opener, had endured four matches without the desired performance level. However, he sensed a big innings was imminent. That moment presented itself in the One-Day International tri-series final against Sri Lanka in Lahore on Saturday. Zaman unleashed a powerful 127 runs off 99 balls to aid Pakistan in chasing down 326 and clinching the final by three wickets.

Pakistan amassed 331 for seven in 48.3 overs, leaving nine balls to spare. It marked a significant victory for the hosts, who also equaled India's remarkable record for the highest successful chase in an ODI final. Speaking after claiming the Player of the Match award, Zaman disclosed his feelings about his lack of runs in the preceding four matches and why he remained steadfast in his approach.

Zaman admitted, "I was simply awaiting that moment," acknowledging that he had not performed optimally at the start of the final. He affirmed that he had prepared for the game in the same manner as the previous four matches, but when the opportunity arose to score, he had faith in his abilities. "I didn't deviate from the way I had approached the earlier matches.

I prepared for this game precisely the same way," Zaman explained. The left-hander also delved into his struggles at the beginning of the innings and highlighted the significance of the century for him. "I was putting in the effort, but cricket is unpredictable; sometimes, despite being in good form, runs evade you," he said. Zaman emphasized that his teammate Saad Baig's approach allowed him to take his time at the crease.

"Baig scored quickly, providing me with the opportunity to relax and continue at my own pace," he added. Zaman credited Baig for his impressive innings, stating that his teammate's approach prevented him from making ill-advised attempts and potentially losing his wicket. Pakistan's chase of 326 equaled India's historic run chase against England in the 2002 NatWest Series final at Lord's, where India had chased down 326 to win by two wickets.

Zaman's century complemented Mohammad Kaif's unbeaten 87 and Yuvraj Singh's 69, enabling Pakistan to complete the joint-highest successful chase in an ODI final.