Despite being the top-ranked ODI batter with a slew of impressive records to his name, Pakistan's captain, Babar Azam, continues to face challenges when it comes to delivering solid performances against the Indian cricket team.
In the Super 4 clash of the Asia Cup held in Colombo, the 28-year-old was dismissed by Hardik Pandya after scoring just 10 runs. Babar managed to strike two boundaries during his slow-paced 24-ball innings.
Babar Azam has now played six innings against India in ODIs, accumulating a total of 168 runs with an average of 28.00. His highest score against the arch-rivals stands at just 48 runs, and he is yet to score a half-century against them.
In the same match, India's Virat Kohli and KL Rahul showcased outstanding batting performances, setting a formidable target for Pakistan.
Play in the highly-anticipated Pakistan-India encounter, as part of the ongoing Asia Cup 2023, commenced after a rain delay. However, once the players took to the field, India quickly seized control of the proceedings.
India concluded their innings at 356-2 within the allotted 50 overs, and Pakistan remained without a wicket on the reserve day.
Virat Kohli, the former Indian skipper, remained unbeaten with a remarkable 122 runs from 94 deliveries, featuring nine boundaries and three sixes. On the other hand, KL Rahul also played a pivotal role with an unbeaten 111 runs off 106 balls, including 14 boundaries.
Furthermore, in a precautionary measure, Pakistani pacer Haris Rauf was ruled out of the India-Pakistan clash. He bowled only five overs in the innings.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) issued a statement, stating, "Haris Rauf will not be bowling any further in the Asia Cup Super 4 match against India as a precautionary measure. He felt a little discomfort in his right flank during the match yesterday.”
“He was subsequently taken for a precautionary MRI, which revealed no tear. He is under the observation of the team’s medical panel,” it added.
- Babar Azam