Opportunity for triple century

Press, 25 February 1989, Page 92

Opportunity for triple century

The number 365 is one which comes easily into Javed Miandad’s thoughts. It was there again yesterday afternoon when a relaxed Miandad, unbeaten on 154, was asked whether today might be his opportunity to score a triple century in test cricket.

"In theory, I suppose I should try to get 365,” was the instant reply of a man who has reached three figures 21 times at test level, seven of them against New Zealand. The magical 365 is the world test record,

achieved by the great West Indian, Sir Garfield Sobers, against Miandad’s Pakistani predecessors three decades ago. “If I could get 365 tomorrow maybe my captain would let me go on,” grinned Miandad. “But I don’t think it can happen, because I’m still over 200 behind.” Whatever Miandad finishes with — and his own test best of 280 is not an unrealistic target — his innings will live long in the minds of those privileged to watch it. “Obviously, on a wicket

like that I always go for my shots, to try and dominate. I don’t always get the opportunity but when I get it I try to make the most of it,” he said. “The wicket is good, it is easy paced, it didn’t turn much or seam either. Some balls stopped though, it is not free for the batsmen to play anywhere. “We were lucky to win the toss. But it is very difficult to say whether the wicket will break up because it is very hard.” The silent partners in the Miandad success

story, which has included centuries against Canterbury and in both tests, have been his wife and young son, who have accompanied him on tour. “Maybe if administrators allowed all wives to tour they would have players score a lot more runs,” he quipped. In the early evening of what had been a long, hot day, Miandad endeared himself to his interviewers by dispensing chilled cans of the sponsor’s products.