In a match that witnessed Pakistan’s commanding victory in opposition to Afghanistan within the opening sport of a three-match collection, skipper Babar Azam discovered himself equaling a singular report. Regardless of Pakistan’s resounding win by 142 runs, Babar Azam’s particular person efficiency garnered consideration as he equaled the duck report held by former captain Imran Khan, Javed Miandad, Azhar Ali, and Younis Khan.
Undesirable report for the Pakistani Famous person
The opening match served as a platform for Afghanistan to check their mettle forward of the upcoming Asia Cup. Whereas Pakistan’s batting show was typically strong, Babar Azam’s disappointing efficiency added a contact of shock. After his spectacular kind within the lately concluded Lanka Premier League, Babar Azam struggled to search out his footing within the first ODI, registering a uncommon duck. This marked his fourth duck in ODI cricket and second as captain, bringing him in keeping with the talked about veterans.
Apparently, Babar Azam’s duck got here by the hands of spinner Mujeeb Ur Rahman, making Rahman the primary spinner to dismiss Babar on a duck. Regardless of Azam’s stumble, Pakistan’s general batting effort remained spectacular. Opener Imam-ul-Haq’s 61-run contribution and the middle-order duo of Iftikhar Ahmed and Shadab Khan’s resilience pushed Pakistan’s whole to 201 runs within the first innings.
Afghanistan, alternatively, confronted an uphill battle, particularly of their batting division. The trio of Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Mohammad Nabi, and Rashid Khan continued to show their brilliance, boosting Afghanistan’s confidence for future contests. Nevertheless, their batting lineup crumbled beneath the stress of Pakistani bowlers, notably Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf, resulting in a disappointing whole of 59 runs. With 9 gamers failing to attain in double digits, Afghanistan’s batting woes turned evident.
Each groups are actually eyeing future tournaments with the hope of refining their efficiency. Pakistan’s Asia Cup marketing campaign is ready to begin on August 30 in opposition to Nepal, adopted by a high-stakes conflict in opposition to India. Waiting for the ODI World Cup, Pakistan will face the Netherlands on October 6.
Equally, Afghanistan is gearing up for challenges in each the Asia Cup and the World Cup. Their Asia Cup journey begins in opposition to Bangladesh on September 3, whereas they may face the identical opponent of their World Cup opener on October 7.
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