In the opening ODI of the Pakistan vs Afghanistan series in Sri Lanka, Babar Azam, Pakistan’s captain, fell for a duck as Mujeeb Ur Rahman claimed his wicket in Hambantota.
Babar Azam’s final preparations for the Asia Cup 2023 got off to a rocky start as he suffered a duck in the opening game of a 3-match ODI series against Afghanistan. Pakistan, having won the toss, chose to bat in the series curtain-raiser ahead of the Asia Cup commencing on August 30.
The Pakistan captain faced just three balls in the second over when spinner Mujeeb Ur Rahman’s delivery caught him off guard. The on-field umpire’s LBW decision was swiftly challenged by Babar, in consultation with teammate Imam-ul-Haq.
The review, however, revealed that the ball was to strike the stumps, prompting the DRS system to display three reds. As a result, Pakistan not only lost their key batsman but also expended a review early in the contest.
Babar Azam departs for a duck!
— FanCode (@FanCode) August 22, 2023
PAK: 7-2 (2)
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.#AFGvPAK pic.twitter.com/pO4nFYNjMn
Afghanistan’s strong start was marked by Fakhar Zaman’s early departure, thanks to Fazahaq Farooqi’s dismissal in the first over. Fakhar’s ambitious drive at a swinging delivery ended in his downfall, as a consequence of his aggressive shot selection.
As Pakistan readies for their Asia Cup journey starting August 30 in Multan, Babar Azam aims to regain his scoring momentum.
Last Updated on August 22, 2023
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