Ibrahim Zadran remembered a lesser-known conversation with Sachin Tendulkar after his record-breaking century against Australia. Before Glenn Maxwell’s incredible performance, Ibrahim Zadran helped Afghanistan perform exceptionally well at the ICC World Cup 2023.
Coming off their success in the ICC Champions Trophy, Afghanistan surprised everyone by putting up a strong fight against Australia for a spot in the World Cup semi-finals on Tuesday. Although the Afghan bowlers initially troubled Australia, it was opener Ibrahim Zadran who set the stage for a competitive total against Australia in World Cup match No. 39 at the Wankhede Stadium.
Zadran batted as the opening player for Afghanistan and played an excellent innings of 129 runs from 143 balls, marking his first century in the World Cup and helping Afghanistan reach a total of 291-5 in their 50 overs.
Sachin Tendulkar met with Afghanistan team mentor Ajay Jadeja and batter Ibrahim Zadran during practice
Before a crucial World Cup match, Ibrahim Zadran spent a significant amount of time with Sachin Tendulkar when the legendary batsman visited the Afghan team.
“I had a good chat with Sachin Tendulkar. He shared his experience, and I said before the match that I will bat like Sachin Tendulkar. He gave me a lot of energy and confidence,” he told Star Sports.
What records did Ibrahim Zadran set against Australia at the World Cup?
Ibrahim Zadran achieved the third-highest individual score against Australia in World Cup history, with only Neil Johnson (132) and Chris Harris (130) scoring more. Zadran’s impressive performance places him ahead of Shikhar Dhawan (117) and Rachin Ravindra (116) on this noteworthy list.
The 21-year-old batsman is the fourth-youngest to score a century against Australia in 50-over cricket.
“I am feeling great to score Afghanistan’s maiden hundred in (World Cup). I worked really hard for this tournament. I missed a hundred against Pakistan but made it today. I was talking to my coaching staff, and I told them I have a feeling I will get a hundred in next three matches,” he added.
Although Ibrahim Zadran’s unbeaten 129 was an outstanding performance, Glenn Maxwell’s incredible knock of 201* off 128 balls stole the limelight as it secured Australia’s spot in the semi-finals.
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