On This Day: Sourav Ganguly scored third ODI century vs New Zealand in Sharjah

Sourav Ganguly scored third ODI century: The then Indian opening batsman had played a watchful innings at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium.

On this day in 1998, the then India opening batsman Sourav Ganguly scored his third ODI century in the first match of the Sharjah Cup against New Zealand in Sharjah.

Continuing his top form in the year, Ganguly scored his second ODI century in addition to three half-centuries till the fourth month of the year.

After the then India captain Mohammed Azharuddin won the toss and chose to bat, Ganguly opened the batting with Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar (40) as the pair shared an impressive 76-run opening stand.

Ganguly, who remained watchful throughout the innings, was often seen driving and punching the pacers on his preferred off-side. Not taking much risk, the southpaw looked elegant as ever to continue scoring runs despite Tendulkar getting out in the 15th over.

It was on the third delivery of the 22nd over that Ganguly ran a risky single off New Zealand spinner Mark Priest to complete his half-century. Continuing to attack Priest, Ganguly was seen hitting him for a four through the off-side and a six down the ground to accumulate runs.

With the Indian middle-order registering a batting collapse, Ganguly holding one end played a pivotal role in India scoring 220/9 in 50 overs. Ganguly reached the three-figure mark on the fourth delivery of the 46th over after he ran a single off New Zealand all-rounder Craig McMillan.

Ganguly’s attempt to up the ante in the penultimate over saw him getting out after playing a tired shot off Dion Nash as he ended up scoring 105 (140) with the help of eight fours and a six.

India pacer Ajit Agarkar bowled exceptionally well to register bowling figures of 10-2-35-4 as the Kiwis were bundled out for 205 in 47.5 overs.

Sourav Ganguly scored third ODI century

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