Pakistan pacer Shaheen Afridi made headlines with a crucial dismissal of Babar Azam during the Champions Cup 2024 match between the Stallions and the Lions at Faisalabad’s Iqbal Stadium. Babar, who had been struggling with form lately, seemed determined to turn things around in this match, coming in at No. 3 for his team.
From the outset, Babar appeared focused, taking his time to settle in and find his rhythm. Despite the recent criticisms and questions about his form, he played some exquisite shots, reminding everyone why he is considered one of the premier batters in the world. His innings quickly became the backbone of his team’s effort to post a challenging total. He not only silenced his critics but also provided a glimpse of the Babar Azam that cricket fans have been eager to see.
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Babar Azam went on to score a crucial half-century, and with the way he was batting, a century seemed almost inevitable. His strokes flowed freely, displaying the class and composure that had been missing from his game in recent matches.
Partnering with Tayyab Tahir, who scored a solid 74, Babar Azam added a 144-run stand, propelling the team past the 200-run mark. His innings of 76 off 79 balls included nine boundaries and came at a strike rate of 96.2, showcasing a balance of aggression and restraint. However, his promising knock was abruptly ended by Shaheen Afridi in the 35th over.
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Shaheen Afridi delivered a short-pitched ball, tempting Babar Azam into a pull shot. Unfortunately for Babar, he mistimed the shot, resulting in a deep catch by Faisal Akram. It was a brilliant effort in the field that left Babar just short of the three-figure mark, a moment that would undoubtedly leave him disappointed.
SHAHEEN SHAH AFRIDI GETS BABAR AZAM BACK TO PAVILION AGAIN ☝🏻 pic.twitter.com/sYcVu5hGgF
— c (@gayomarlic) September 13, 2024
Babar’s performance in this match comes after a rough patch in international cricket, particularly during the Test series against Bangladesh, where he managed only 64 runs in four innings. This recent knock in the Champions Cup could be the confidence boost he and the Pakistan team desperately need.
While missing out on the century may sting, Babar’s return to form bodes well as he looks to carry this momentum into the upcoming series against England, where his contributions will be crucial. For now, his focus will remain on maintaining this upward trajectory in the ongoing Champions Cup.
