In the fast-paced world of ODI cricket, the role of a wicketkeeper-batsman is crucial and often underappreciated. This dual responsibility demands a unique set of skills and qualities that can turn the tide of a match.
A wicketkeeper-batsman adds depth to a team's batting lineup. They are not merely specialist batsmen but also possess the agility and reflexes needed for wicketkeeping. This allows teams to field an extra specialist batsman without compromising on wicketkeeping quality, increasing the team's overall batting prowess.
Asia Cup 2023 has begun and all eyes will be on the number-ranked team in the ODI format Pakistan. They have been in brilliant form recently and have reached the pinnacle of ODIs.
However, we have collected a list of wicketkeepers who have played outstanding innings against Pakistan in the ODI format. The top bookmakers in India have cricket odds with them.
1) Rahmanullah Gurbaz – Afghanistan
The young wicketkeeper from Afghanistan is the newest addition to the list. Rahmanullah Gurbaz played a crucial role against Pakistan in the 2nd ODI during the recently held Afghanistan vs. Pakistan bilateral series.
He scored 151 runs off 151 balls at a strike rate of 100 and his innings included 14 fours and 3 maximums. Gurbaz surpassed Quinton de Kock and Imam-ul-Haq to become the third player to score 5 ODI centuries.
He completed his half-century in just 26 balls and maintained his pace in the game. Afghanistan did lose the game but Gurbaaz’s performance made headlines that day.
2) MS Dhoni – India
One of the most memorable moments in the career of cricketing legend MS Dhoni was his first international century against Pakistan. This historic feat occurred during an ODI match in December 2005.
Dhoni's knock of 148 runs off 123 balls was not only his maiden century but also a testament to his extraordinary talent. Facing a formidable Pakistani bowling attack, Dhoni exhibited impeccable composure and an array of shots.
This remarkable achievement not only established Dhoni as a dependable middle-order batsman but also showcased his ability to handle pressure in high-stakes encounters.
3) Brendon McCullum – New Zealand
Brendon McCullum's blazing 131-run innings against Pakistan in a 2009 ODI is a spectacular chapter in the history of limited-overs cricket. This unforgettable performance occurred during the second ODI at Abu Dhabi in November 2009.
McCullum's innings was a masterclass in aggressive batting. He displayed remarkable power-hitting and an astonishing range of shots that left the Pakistani bowlers in disarray. It is because of McCullum’s hundred, that New Zealand had a solid start to the match and they scored a comfortable win against Men in Green.
4) AB de Villiers – South Africa
AB de Villiers' remarkable innings of 128 runs against Pakistan in Johannesburg in 2013 remains etched in cricketing memory as a breathtaking display of batting brilliance. This innings took place during the second ODI of Pakistan's tour of South Africa in March 2013.
De Villiers' 128 came off just 108 balls and was a testament to his extraordinary skills. His innings were characterized by an exquisite combination of elegance and power. He effortlessly maneuvered the ball around the field and unleashed ferocious strokes when needed, leaving the Pakistani bowlers befuddled.
5) Jonny Bairstow – England
Jonny Bairstow's magnificent innings of 128 runs against Pakistan in England in 2019 was a dazzling display of his batting prowess and an embodiment of his ability to dominate the opposition.
This impressive performance took place during the third ODI of Pakistan's tour of England in May 2019. Bairstow's 128 runs were scored off just 93 balls, showcasing his aggressive style of play. His innings were marked by impeccable timing, powerful drives, and an array of exquisite cricketing shots that left the Pakistani bowlers struggling for answers.
