Younis Khan set to feature in history books as he closes in on Javed Miandad

Younis Khan is only 19 runs away from entering the record books

Pakistani batsman, Younis Khan is set to tower above Javed Miandad as he closes in on the latter’s Test runs, which is the highest by any Pakistani batsman. However, Younis does not recognize himself on the same level as Miandad whom he marks out as a ‘legend and idol’.

Younis Khan has featured in 101 tests for Pakistan scoring a total of 8814 runs and 30 centuries.

He trails Javed Miandad’s tally of 8832 runs in 124 matches scored in the course of a superstar career starting from 1976 to 1993, by only 19 runs.

"It would be great to achieve the record. I never thought I would do it at the start of my career," said Younis.

"Passing Miandad would be great, but I am in no way close to the great man who is a legend of Pakistan cricket."

Younis added, "Even after passing his tally of runs I would not be able to attain the heights that Miandad achieved. He was idolised by millions."

Younis have been following Miandad’s beaten track from the very beginning as he scored a century on debut, just like Miandad, against Sri Lanka at Rawalpindi in 2000.

The Pakistani veteran also made his presence felt in the series win over Australia last year, which was Pakistan's first in 20 years, as he chalked up a total of 468 runs against the Aussies.

"Records aside, I want to bat for my country and the best identity for me is not records. I want to be recognized as a batsman who always played for his country," said Younis.

According to Younis, he did not sense any kind of pressure in reaching the landmark.

"I am feeling very normal, there is no pressure on me," said Younis.

"This is an important series for us so I want to do my best for the team and for the country."

Khan’s 171 not out against Sri Lanka in Pallekele in July clearly points out that the batsman is in exceptional form. His score was also the maximum fourth innings score by any Pakistani batsman and also helped Pakistan to track down their highest total of 377 to conquer a Test.

His century ruined quite a few records as he becomes the first player to score five centuries in the fourth innings of a test. He put to shame the likes of Sunil Gavaskar, Ricky Ponting, Ramnaresh Sarwan and Graeme Smith all of whom have settled at four.

Younis expected to go past Miandad in Sri Lanka but missed it by a small margin.