Top 5 Run-Machines in Asia Cup Tournaments

The 2023 Asia Cup is just around the corner, and cricket fans around the world are gearing up for another exciting edition of this prestigious tournament. This year, the Asia Cup is taking on a hybrid model, with matches being hosted in two cricket-loving nations, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, commencing on August 31. As we eagerly await the action to unfold, let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the most unforgettable batting performances in the history of the Asia Cup.

1.  Virat Kohli’s Masterclass (2012)

Topping our list is the sensational knock played by a young and fiery Virat Kohli in the 2012 edition of the Asia Cup. Back then, Kohli was a 23-year-old dynamo who took the cricketing world by storm with his sublime batting skills. Facing arch-rivals Pakistan in Mirpur, Bangladesh, Kohli unleashed a breathtaking innings, scoring a jaw-dropping 183 runs off just 148 balls.

This innings was nothing short of spectacular, earning Kohli the moniker “The Chase Master.” Chasing a formidable target of 330 runs, Kohli showcased remarkable composure and aggression, guiding India to victory with 13 balls to spare and six wickets in hand. His innings included a whopping 22 fours and a solitary six, leaving fans in awe of his talent.

2. Kumar Sangakkara’s Grace (2008)

                                                             Kumar Sangakkara(Photo Source: Twitter)

In the 2008 Asia Cup, Sri Lanka’s legendary wicketkeeper-batsman, Kumar Sangakkara, left an indelible mark with his impeccable batting. Facing India in Karachi, Sangakkara’s elegant stroke play and exquisite timing were on full display as he scored a magnificent 128 runs. His innings provided the backbone for Sri Lanka’s total of 308, which proved too much for India to chase down. Sangakkara’s masterful knock remains one of the finest in Asia Cup history.

3. Shoaib Malik’s Heroics (2004)

                                                                       Shoaib Malik(Photo Source: Twitter)

The 2004 Asia Cup witnessed an incredible batting display from Pakistan’s Shoaib Malik. In a crucial match against arch-rivals India, Malik played a pivotal role in Pakistan’s triumph. He scored an impressive 143 runs, showcasing his ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed. Pakistan’s total of 300 proved to be just enough as they defended their score and emerged victorious, thanks in large part to Malik’s heroics.

4. Sanath Jayasuriya’s Blitzkrieg (1997)

                                                              Sanath Jayasuriya(Photo Source: Twitter)

Sanath Jayasuriya was known for revolutionizing the role of an opener in One-Day Internationals, and he left an indelible mark on the 1997 Asia Cup. In a group-stage match against Bangladesh, Jayasuriya played a blistering innings, scoring a scintillating 130 runs off just 65 balls. His explosive batting set the stage for Sri Lanka’s mammoth total of 363, a score that proved insurmountable for Bangladesh. Jayasuriya’s swashbuckling knock was a testament to his aggressive and fearless brand of cricket.

5. Babar Azam’s Artistry (2018)

                                                                       Babar Azam(Photo Source: Twitter)

Babar Azam, Pakistan’s modern-day batting sensation, announced his arrival on the Asia Cup stage in style during the 2018 edition. In a match against Afghanistan, Azam played a composed and stylish innings, scoring an elegant 96 runs. While he narrowly missed out on a century, his innings proved crucial in Pakistan’s nail-biting victory. Azam’s ability to control the game with his exquisite stroke play and temperament showcased his immense potential as a future cricketing superstar.