Misbah-ul-Haq built a reputation as one of Pakistan’s calmest and most dependable batters. Renowned for his patience, defensive solidity, and ability to frustrate bowlers with innovative strokeplay, Misbah delivered several memorable performances during his international career. Across formats, he scored more than 5,000 runs each in Tests and ODIs, while also amassing over 17,000 first-class runs. Here are three of his finest performances in international cricket.
Here are top three performances of Misbah ul Haq in international cricket:
161* vs India, Eden Gardens, 2007
One of Misbah’s greatest Test innings came against arch-rivals India at Eden Gardens in Kolkata during the second Test of the 2007 series. India dominated the match early after piling up a massive 616/5 declared in the first innings. Wasim Jaffer scored a magnificent 202, while Sourav Ganguly hit 102, VVS Laxman remained unbeaten on 112, and Sachin Tendulkar added 82. For Pakistan, Sohail Tanvir and Danish Kaneria picked up two wickets each but endured a punishing time on a flat surface.
Under huge pressure, Misbah produced a marathon unbeaten 161 from 351 balls, an innings built on immense patience and concentration. He struck 13 boundaries and one six while batting for long periods against India’s experienced bowling attack. Kamran Akmal also contributed 119, helping Pakistan reach 456. Despite Harbhajan Singh taking five wickets and Anil Kumble claiming three, Misbah’s resistance ensured Pakistan avoided collapse. India later declared their second innings at 184/4 before Pakistan safely reached 214/4 to secure a draw.
96* vs West Indies, The Oval, 2013
Although Pakistan lost this Champions Trophy encounter against the West Indies, Misbah’s unbeaten 96 at The Oval remains one of the finest ODI rescue acts by a Pakistan batter. Pakistan’s batting line-up struggled badly on a difficult surface, with wickets falling regularly against disciplined Caribbean bowling.
Only Nasir Jamshed managed to offer support with 50 runs, while the rest of the batting order collapsed under pressure. Misbah held the innings together almost single-handedly, scoring an unbeaten 96 out of Pakistan’s total of 170. His innings combined caution with calculated aggression as he attempted to guide Pakistan to a competitive score. The West Indies bowlers, led by Kemar Roach and Sunil Narine, kept constant pressure on the batting side. Pakistan’s bowlers responded brilliantly and nearly defended the modest target. Mohammad Irfan, Saeed Ajmal, and Wahab Riaz pushed the match deep before the West Indies eventually won by two wickets.
135 vs Sri Lanka, Abu Dhabi, 2014
Misbah once again showcased his class in the first Test against Sri Lanka in Abu Dhabi in 2014. Sri Lanka were bowled out for 204 in their first innings despite a fighting 91 from Angelo Mathews. Pakistan’s bowlers, particularly Junaid Khan, dominated proceedings early.
Pakistan responded strongly with 383 runs, thanks largely to centuries from Younis Khan and Misbah. Misbah’s 135 was a masterclass in controlled batting as he combined defensive assurance with timely attacking shots. Facing bowlers like Rangana Herath and Suranga Lakmal, Misbah displayed tremendous concentration and leadership. The match eventually ended in a draw after Sri Lanka fought back strongly in their second innings through centuries from Mathews and others.
Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.
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