Shaiman Anwar becomes the first UAE batsman to hit a World Cup century

BRISBANE // Shaiman Anwar continues to make a mockery of the fact he idolises Rahul Dravid, after making a coruscating century at the World Cup against Ireland.

The Sialkot-born batsmen set two notable records in the UAE’s innings of 278 for nine at The Gabba.

He became the first batsman from a non-Test nation to score consecutive half-centuries in his first two World Cup matches.

Then he became the first UAE player ever to reach three-figures in cricket’s global showpiece.

The method he did it with was typical of him. On a vast playing area, he hit 10 fours and a six. His free-hitting style brought him 106 at a strike rate of 127.

All of which belies the fact that, while growing up, he tried to base his game on Dravid, the Indian master known as “The Wall” because of his solidity, rather than his flair.

“My playing style is different,” Shaiman said of Dravid after the UAE’s first game against Zimbabwe in Nelson last week.

“I play more punch shots. But I was always impressed with Dravid’s technical ability. I always used to wonder what he’ do, because he never seemed to get out to any bowler.

“There were many other players I looked up to, including some Pakistani stars, but I have learnt the most from Dravid’s batting.”

Shaiman’s century alliance for the seventh-wicket with Amjad Javed, who made 42 from 35 deliveries, gave the UAE’s bowlers a target to defend, following a fitful start to the innings.

pradley@thenational.ae

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