Pakistan batter Salman Ali Agha marked his return to Pakistan's ODI setup with a century on October 18, 2026, at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. The 32-year-old batter struck 107 off 90 balls, hitting ten fours and one six as Pakistan compiled 305 all out in 49.5 overs after Sri Lanka won the toss and chose to bowl first. The performance carried significance for Agha, who had been recalled to the squad following his removal from the Test side and captaincy duties a couple of months earlier during the England tour.
Pakistan's total proved decisive in the tri-series match. Sri Lanka's chase fell short as Pakistan won by 37 runs. Agha's century marked his fourth in ODI cricket, underlining his value in the middle order during a period of transition for the national team. The batter's post-match celebration drew attention on social media, prompting questions about its meaning and intent.
Agha's gesture after reaching his century had sparked speculation among observers, but he clarified that the celebration carried personal rather than competitive significance. He spoke candidly about his mindset following the difficult period that preceded his recall to the squad.
"My son watches a lot of TV, so that was for him," Agha said after the match.
Why the celebration mattered to Agha
Agha remains focused on his cricket rather than responding to external criticism or commentary. His approach reflects a mature understanding of the pressures that accompany international cricket and the need to maintain perspective during challenging phases.
"I don’t have the time to prove someone wrong or send messages. I love my cricket, I love batting and I love playing for Pakistan. That’s what I do. That celebration was just for my son. Otherwise, I have nothing to do with anything," he added.
Agha's decade-long first-class career has taught him the value of remaining grounded through ups and downs. The time he spent on the domestic circuit before the tri-series proved instrumental in restoring his confidence and reconnecting with his passion for the game.
"I’ve played first-class cricket for 10 years. If you are grounded, and your feet are on the floor, these things don’t matter to you that you are out of the team and then make a comeback. I played five first-class mates before this tri-series and it helped me immensely," he note.
"My struggles in the West Indies and England, when those kind of things happen your love for the sport diminishes. I think my struggles were because of my reduced love for the game. Spending time with old friends on the domestic circuit helped me stay grounded." he added.
