In a bizarre yet historic cricketing moment, Pakistan’s Sufiyan Muqeem etched his name into the record books by becoming the first-ever batter to score in the number 12 position in an ODI match. The milestone came during the second ODI of the three-match series against New Zealand at Hamilton on Tuesday.
Muqeem, a spinner by role, was sent in after concussion substitute Naseem Shah replaced Haris Rauf, who was hit on the helmet. As per Wisden, this rare scenario meant Muqeem officially batted at the number 12 spot — a first in ODI history.
Coming in when Pakistan was reeling at 174/9, Muqeem scored a quick 13 runs off 10 balls, including a boundary and a six, forming a short-lived but notable stand with Naseem Shah. Naseem played a valiant knock of 51 off 44 balls, narrowly missing the record for the highest score by a No.11 (currently held by Mohammad Amir’s 58* against England in 2016).
Despite their efforts, Pakistan fell short in their 293-run chase, losing by 84 runs. New Zealand had earlier set a formidable target, posting 292/8, thanks to Mitchell Hay’s unbeaten 99 off 78 balls.
Ben Sears (5/59) and Jacob Duffy (3/35) dismantled Pakistan’s top order before Faheem Ashraf (73 off 80) and the late-order resistance helped Pakistan salvage pride.
Muqeem also impressed with the ball, returning 2/33, though it wasn’t enough to prevent NZ from sealing the series 2–0.
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