7 things to know about Zulfiqar Babar

Earlier today, an unknown 35-year-old Pakistani bolwer stunned Australia, when he cleaned up David Warner in the second ball of the Australian innings, before getting rid of Shane Watson in the very same over. MeetZulfiqar Babar, and hereare 7 things that you must know about him!

#7 Did Shahid Afridi block his national place?

It is believed in the Pakistani cricket community that Zulfiqar Babar’s national call-up has been delayed by Shahid Afridi, as both of them contest for the bowling-all-rounder spot. It is unknown to many, but Babar can also contribute significantly with the bat.

#6 Impressive debut

On his Test debut he took the prized wickets of JP Duminy, Faf du Plessis and Robin Peterson in the first innings, while also dismissing Hashim Amla and Dale Steyn in the 2nd Innings.

His inspired showing helped Pakistan win the match by seven wickets.

#5 2nd oldest Pakistani player to debut in T20I

On 27th July, 2013 Babar made his T20 International debut against West Indies, at the age of 34 years and 229 days, becoming the second oldest Pakistani player to do so, only behind Inzamam-ul-Haq who had debuted when he was 36 years 178 days old at that time.

Following his debut, he had said: "I always leave such matters in the hands of Allah. Perhaps, it was my destiny to be playing for Pakistan at a time when people would be seriously considering other options in life."

#4 Outrageous! 93 wickets in 13 games

Babar had a memorable Quaid-e-Azam trophy in 2009/10 as he took 69 wickets at a brilliant average of 16.42. Although he was overlooked by the national selectors once again.

But, after the 2012/13 season in which he took 93 first-class wickets in just 13 games at an average of 17.04, the selectors had no option but to give him his first national call-up.

In October of 2013, he took 6 for 22 in a practice game between Pakistan Chief Ministers XI and Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman’s XI which sealed his fate.

#3 Experienced campaigner

Zulfiqar Babar has a lot of experience under his belt as he has represented Multan Tigers, Quetta Bears, Water and Power Development Authority and also for the Pakistan A cricket team.

#2 Son of a footballer

Abdul Ghaffar, a former Pakistani International footballer is the father of Babar, who had represented the national team on one occasion.

He had said in an interview that his father never forced him to play football, instead allowed him to chase his dreams. His two sons also have keen interest in cricket.

#1 History-maker

Okara, is the name of Babar’s home-town, which is located at a distance of 85 miles from Lahore. He is the first person from his home-town to play for the Pakistan National Team in over 65 years.