In a riveting Asia Cup 2023 Super-Four encounter between India and Pakistan, Hardik Pandya left Babar Azam stunned as he bowled an absolute in-seaming beauty to dismiss the Pakistan captain.
In the contemporary era of ODI cricket, Pakistan’s success is often intricately tied to their captain’s exceptional performance, but today didn’t look like Babar Azam’s day as Hardik Pandya delivered an unplayable delivery that put India in control.
During the India-Pakistan clash in Colombo, India’s fast bowlers Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah set the tone early, defending a challenging 357-run target. Despite their dominance, Pakistan’s hopes usually hinge on Babar Azam, but Hardik dismissed him unusually early with a delivery that could have troubled any batsman.
Hardik Pandya took charge of the ball right after the powerplay and added pressure on Babar Azam with three consecutive dot balls. Then, with the fourth delivery, Hardik bowled from a wider angle, tempting Babar to play an offside shot. However, just before landing, the ball subtly changed direction in the air, surprising everyone. It snuck between Babar’s bat and pad, hitting the stumps perfectly. Hardik celebrated his spectacular delivery, while Babar (10) briefly hesitated in disbelief.
Twitter users are heaping praises on Hardik for this incredible delivery.
Pakistan lose their main man Babar Azam… š
— Cricket on TNT Sports (@cricketontnt) September 11, 2023
A long way back for them now. #INDvPAK pic.twitter.com/9qLUnJKBzs
In the ongoing match, Jasprit Bumrah has provided India with an ideal start, dismissing Imam-Ul-Haq early as Pakistan pursued a daunting 357-run target.
Earlier, Virat Kohli’s explosive finish, including consecutive fours and a six, propelled India beyond 350 runs. Kohli scored 122 off 94 balls, while KL Rahul remained unbeaten with 111 off 106 deliveries, and their unbroken partnership reached an impressive 233 runs from 194 balls.
Last Updated on September 11, 2023
Senior Sports Copywriter
