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When Sharjah was the stage to Miandad's epic last-ball six

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Javed MIandad. - AFP file

Published: Sat 18 Apr 2020, 3:12 PM

Last updated: Sun 19 Apr 2020, 8:07 PM

The historic Sharjah Cricket Stadium has been the stage for many classics and thrillers over the years. But there's one that stands out, even today, one that sent millions of Pakistan fans into delirium and shattered a million hearts.
So much so that, the adage: "Pakistan can never lose on a Friday," stuck for most of the 80s and the 90s and a good part of the noughties.
There have been gripping Ashes battles between old foes England and Australia but the 1986 Australasia Cup holds a special place and is a part of cricketing folklore.
April 18 was not just any other day. It was a day when the subcontinent screeched to a halt. And no prizes for guessing why. It was an India-Pakistan encounter, not least a final. The stakes were high.
India, captained by Kapil Dev and Pakistan, led by the warrior Imran Khan, went toe to toe as this riveting contest ebbed and flowed.
And it all came down to the final over with Pakistan 11 runs away from winning the Cup, and India holding six deliveries to make a match of it.
But then, Javed Miandad's heroics and his last-ball six aced it for Pakistan.

With the equation being four needed of the last ball with a wicket in hand, Indian bowler Chetan Sharma intended a yorker but it was to be a full toss. And MIandad eyes lit up as he smoked it for a six, to spark celebrations.
As a jubilant Miandad and last man Tauseef Ahmed hurtled to the dressing room, there were fantastic scenes as fans invaded the pitch.
And those scenes are remembered fondly, even today.
james@khaleejtimes.com

By James Jose

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