Azan credits Nahid bouncer for boosting confidence in Dhaka Test ton

The 21-year-old left-hander, opening alongside Imam-ul-Haq, was struck on the helmet by a sharp 140.9 kph delivery from Nahid in the seventh over of Pakistan’s innings on Day 2 at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium.

Pakistan’s physio rushed onto the field to provide treatment, although Azan did not require a concussion substitute and continued batting comfortably afterward.

Speaking after the day’s play, Azan admitted the blow briefly left him disoriented but also motivated him to prove himself.

“I wasn’t nervous, but after the ball hit my helmet I lost focus for almost five minutes,” Azan said. “Then I told myself this was the time to show who I am, and I did that.”

The young opener went on to score a memorable century on debut, reaching the milestone in 153 balls before eventually making 103. He became only the third Pakistan batter to score a Test hundred on debut against Bangladesh.

Azan’s rise has been rapid since making his first-class debut in October 2024. In just 33 first-class matches, he has scored 2,673 runs at an average of 48.60, including 10 centuries and a double hundred.

The left-hander said he sensed his Test dream was close during Pakistan’s pre-tour training camp in Karachi under former captain Sarfaraz Ahmed.

“I performed well in first-class cricket over the last two years and always dreamed of playing Tests,” he said. “When the coaches gave me opportunities in the camp, I realised my dream was about to come true. Alhamdulillah, I was able to fulfill it.”

Azan also credited his father and several coaches, including Mohammad Yousuf, for helping improve his technique throughout his development.