Babar Azam scored his maiden Test century in 2018. He achieved this milestone against New Zealand.

What happened?

Babar Azam had gone past the 50-run mark on eight occasions in 30 Test innings before the Dubai Test.

Background

He had struggled to impose himself as a batsman on the Test circuit, averaging below 24 in Tests before 2018.

The century

Azam decided to bide his time, playing out 43 deliveries to go from 90 to 100, and ensure he scored his maiden Test century.

He said, "I had heard from my elders that scoring a Test century is special and that's exactly what I experienced today."

Impact on Pakistan

Azam's hundred changed a lot, not only for him but also for his team, with his average of 68 in Tests that year bringing hope to Pakistan cricket.

Babar Azam's elegant strokeplay and exceptional ability to get behind the line of the ball made him look fluent during the entire course of the innings.

He whipped Trent Boult for two runs which took him past his maiden Test century.

Azam initially began the celebration while completing the first run, then halted and quickly ran for the double.

"I have gained a lot of confidence in the wake of scoring this 100," Azam said.

As Haris Sohail, his partner, dug in, Azam often changed gears to find boundaries.

His strike rate of almost one run per two balls was the second best behind Sarfraz Ahmed's 66 in the entire innings.

Babar Azam's performance was a relief for Pakistan, with Azhar Ali's form dipping somewhat after the legends' departure.

Azam's average of 68 in Tests that year was a significant improvement from his previous average.

He focused on his performance, trying to give his 100% and not thinking about his batting position.

Babar Azam's maiden Test century was a special moment for him and Pakistan cricket.

The century was scored on the second day of the second Test against New Zealand in 2018.

It was a significant achievement for Azam, who had been working hard to improve his Test performance.

The milestone brought confidence to Azam, who said it was a relief to get over the line.

Babar Azam's performance in the Test was notable, with his elegant strokeplay and ability to get behind the line of the ball.

He was happy to play at any position, as long as it was what the team wanted.

Azam's maiden Test century was a significant moment in his career, and it brought hope to Pakistan cricket.

The achievement was a result of his hard work and dedication to improving his Test performance.

Babar Azam's focus on his performance and his ability to adapt to different situations made him a valuable player for Pakistan.

His maiden Test century was a special moment, and it would be remembered as a significant achievement in his career.