Azhar and East England Under-19 international Jack Haynes scored 281 runs for the third wicket – a record partnership against Leicestershire, surpassing the 278 by Cyril Walters and Harold Gibbons in 1934.
His stand was the cornerstone of Worcestershire’s 456-run lead at 308 for three at stumps on the second day of four at New Road.
@AzharAli_ today… Double century batted throughout the day Directly to young supporters… https://t.co/goXAEUAS14
— Worcestershire County Cricket Club (@WorcsCCC) 1653069747000
Haynes was eventually dismissed for 127 but Azhar completed his double century in the final over of the day with a four off Rehan Ahmed.
By that time, Azhar had faced 328 balls, including one six and 18 fours, and also forged another century partnership with Brett D’Oliveira (52 not out).
Azhar arrived at the headquarters in New Road, Worcestershire after a successful Test series against Australia, which included an 11-hour marathon 185 in Rawalpindi.
Just look how much it means for @AzharAli_’s teammates to see him go to the three digits… https://t.co/JQhrD77Ex7
— Worcestershire County Cricket Club (@WorcsCCC) 1653076613000
The 37-year-old struggled with the change in English conditions for the first time and scored 34 runs in his opening six innings for Midlands County Worcestershire.
But the former Pakistan captain has found his form since scoring 92 against Durham’s attack, including with new England skipper Ben Stokes.