Wasim Akram is considered to be one of the greatest fast bowlers in the world and during his illustrious career, the Pakistan pacer was able to claim a number of impressive milestones. On May 4, 1990, the legendary fast bowler wreaked havoc on the Aussie batsmen as he went on claim his second ODI hat-trick during the final of the Austral-Asia Cup. It was a great bowling performance by Akram as he guided his team to a brilliant victory.
Winning the toss, Pakistan opted to bat and were able to post a score of 266/7 in 50 overs. Saleem Malik was the top-scorer for them with 87 off 104 balls while opener Saeed Anwar contributed with a gritty 40. Akram was the surprise package as he slammed 49 in a quick pace to guide his team to a competitive total.
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In reply, Mark Taylor (52),Steve Waugh (64) and Simon O’Donnell (33 off 28 balls) brought Australia quite close to victory as they were 207/7 with a few overs to go.However, Akram made short work of the last three wickets as he claimed a brilliant hat-trick to bundle out the Aussies for 230.
Merv Hughes (9) was the first victim of Akram before Carl Rackemann and Terry Alderman were clean bowled by the left-arm fast bowler who went on to claim the Man of the Match award for his brilliant performance.
{{/usCountry}}Merv Hughes (9) was the first victim of Akram before Carl Rackemann and Terry Alderman were clean bowled by the left-arm fast bowler who went on to claim the Man of the Match award for his brilliant performance.
{{/usCountry}}Besides Akram, Mushtaq Ahmed claimed three wickets while Waqar Younis also chipped in with two wickets.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) took to its official Twitter handle to remember Akram’s record. “#OnThisDay in 1990, Wasim Akram picked up his second ODI hat-trick as Pakistan defeated Australia by 36 runs in the final of the Austral-Asia Cup in Sharjah,” the ICC wrote.