Speed of light: Gibbs, Akhtar go down memory lane

Former South Africa opener Herschelle Gibbs and former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar recalled memories from a fascinating Sharjah clash, in 2000, between their respective sides.

Pakistan had set South Africa a modest target of 169 runs, after winning the toss and deciding to bat first. In response, the Proteas were dismissed for only 101 runs after an inspired spell of fast-bowling from Akhtar — who claimed three wickets for nine in 4.5 overs.

Interestingly, this particular match made Pakistan the only team who have won an ODI without dismissing any of the opposition’s opening batsmen. It must be noted that Gibbs opened the innings with Gary Kirsten, but neither of them were dismissed as Gibbs remained not out on 59 while Kirsten retired hurt with back spasms on eight.

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Sharing his response on the aforementioned stat, Gibbs heaped praise on Akhtar’s lightning fast bowling.

“Yes Gary had back spasms and retired hurt and I was not out on 60 I think. Shoaib as usual bowled the speed of light,” said Gibbs.

Responding to Gibbs’s comment, Akhtar said: “It was a good day for us @hershybru [Gibbs] because you were not scoring at the speed of light which you usually did.”

It was a good day for us @hershybru because you were not scoring at the speed of light which you usually did :) https://t.co/EjORtrzMfo

— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) April 12, 2020

Earlier, former South Africa captain Shaun Pollock had revealed an interesting story regarding Pakistan’s legendary pacer, Akhtar, and how he made life difficult for the batsmen of his time with his speed.

"When batting we used to watch the Pakistan captain to see how many overs Shoaib Akhtar had left in his spell. When he'd get the signal that he was out of the attack, we would think, Yes!" he said.