The top-ranked ODI batter globally, Babar Azam, faced a setback during a crucial Asia Cup encounter between India and Pakistan. With a challenging target of 357 runs to chase after the early dismissal of Imam-ul Haq, Babar Azam, Pakistan's captain, found himself on to the crease. While Pakistan wanted a captain's knock from him, he failed to deliver in this match and was dismissed for 10 off 24 balls by Hardik Pandya with a brilliant incoming delivery.
Hardik executed a brilliant strategy to get rid of the big fish Babar Azam. Following two consecutive outswingers, Pandya delivered the third ball as an inswinger, which was slightly shorter in length. However, it was the fourth delivery that led to the dismissal of Babar as it came back sharply after pitching in a similar area.
The video of Babar Azam's dismissal has gone viral on social media:
Soon after Babar's wicket, rain returned again at the R Premadasa Stadium in this Super Four fixture in Colombo in a match that is already in its reserve day. However, thankfully, it was a short delay and match resumed with no reduction in overs and Pakistan's target of 357 intact. As soon as the 20-over mark of Pakistan's chase was crossed, Indian fans breathed a sigh of relief as a result was now guaranteed with India seemingly miles ahead in the match
This is the second IND vs PAK Asia Cup 2023 fixture with their Group Stage face off ending without a result at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. There is a possibility of yet another IND-PAK match in this continental tournament if both these teams end up reaching the summit clash which is scheduled to be played in Colombo on September 17.