Pakistan won a Test series by beating Sri Lanka in the Lankan island after nine long years on Tuesday. Younis Khan was the man who orchestrated an incredible run chase along with Shaan Masood in the third Test of the three-match series at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy.
Pakistan needed 377 runs in order to register a record-breaking victory over Sri Lanka. The visitors were shaky at the start of the run chase and lost a couple of wickets as well. But it was the 242 runs stand between Khan and Masood that led Pakistan to this memorable win over the hosts.
The critics raised their eyebrows as Younis Khan was out of form for a while. However, he has now silenced them by scoring his 31st century in the fourth innings of the final Test match when his side needed him the most.
"I always look at the positives when criticised. I take it constructively. At same time I have never allowed criticism to deter me or deflate me. I have never doubted my own ability no matter what anyone says. My biggest driving force has been my fans and my family. I always back myself to do something for the team and this innings was no different," Younis Khan told Geo News after the match.
Younis Khan's 171 is the highest score by a Pakistani batsman ever in the fourth innings of a test match. It was also his fifth Test century in the fourth innings as well.
"I was hunting for a big score and I am happy it helped Pakistan win. But the victory was due to a team effort. Shaan Masood played a remarkable innings and was oozing with confidence in the middle.
"When we started the fourth innings we believed we could achieve the target even on this pitch. I have always backed this team because it has some very good players who are not shy of challenges," Younis added.
