18 years later, Javed and Chetan relive the moment

Both cricketers have come together as commentators for a private Indian television channel for the ongoing Asia Cup in Sri Lanka. But with the passing of time, both cricketers have mellowed and the edge taken off that moment.

To the extent that both can speak about it rationally. With Pakistan requiring four runs off the last ball, Miandad got a rare gift, a full toss, from Chetan which he deposited over the ropes to script a fairytale win for Pakistan.

‘‘I was expecting a yorker,’’ Miandad said, recalling that game. ‘‘I could never repeat such a performance. Except for the last ball of the match, victory was never in sight.’’

Did that last delivery surprise the Pakistani batsman? ‘‘After that over, I had wanted to ask Chetan just one question: ‘Was that the only delivery in your armour?’’’

Chetan, the image imprinted on his mind, was never the same pace bowler again. ‘‘It shattered my confidence,’’ he said, recalling that incident. ‘‘I could have bowled a yorker or even a straight ball. For months I used to sit alone and think of that over.’’

No longer, it seems. ‘‘It’s history. We are good friends now,’’ Miandad said.

‘‘This is the first time since that final that we’ve exchanged notes on the game in the two countries’’, said Chetan.

The former fast bowler is a great fan of Miandad’s. ‘‘His simplicity and love for the game is great,’’ Chetan said. ‘‘Despite being a legend, he’s so simple and down to earth. He has no airs about him. The easy manner in which he mingles with young cricketers is something most of our own cricketers should learn to emulate.’’