Home
Babar Azam's struggles with the bat were evident once more as he managed just 10 runs in Pakistan's challenging pursuit against Sri Lanka. Earlier in the World Cup, Babar had a similarly underwhelming performance against the Netherlands, scoring a mere five runs. His recent dismissal, coming off a rather ordinary delivery which he ended up gloving to wicketkeeper Sadeera Samarawickrama, compounded Pakistan's troubles, especially when set against a challenging target of 345.
Despite Babar's encouraging form in the warm-up games where he scored 80 and 90, his performances in the World Cup's key matches have left fans disheartened. As a consequence, the skipper, frequently likened to Virat Kohli, faced flak on social media platforms. The comparisons grew especially sharp given Kohli's pivotal 85-run knock against Australia, while Babar seemed out of form.
Many have criticised Babar Azam for his apparent inability to rise to the occasion, especially when contrasted against Kohli, renowned for his ability to thrive under pressure. The prevailing sentiment is that Babar, despite his talent, may never attain the legendary stature of Kohli due to his inconsistency on significant platforms.
In earlier action, Sri Lanka set a formidable score of 344/9 against Pakistan in their World Cup encounter at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. Centuries by Kusal Mendis and Sadeera Samarawickrama, bolstered by a fifty from Pathum Nissanka, ensured Sri Lanka surpassed the 300-mark with ease. Nonetheless, a spirited performance in the end by Pakistan's Hasan Ali, with figures of 4/71, and Haris Rauf's double-strike in the concluding over kept Sri Lanka from breaching 350.
The duo of Mendis and Nissanka constructed a commendable partnership, adding 102 runs before Shadab Khan provided the breakthrough, dismissing Nissanka for 51. Meanwhile, Mendis soldiered on, achieving his ODI century in just 65 balls. He was eventually dismissed for a fiery 122 off 77 balls, with Hasan Ali claiming back-to-back wickets, offering some solace to Pakistan.
MORE ON SPORTS TAK
Sri Lanka wicketkeeper Kusal Mendis taken to hospital in Hyderabad after 122-run knock against Pakistan
Big Update: Good news for India ahead of Pakistan clash as Shubman Gill discharged from hospital; check likely date of comeback
Selection committee shortlists two openers as Shubman Gill's replacement, call on Indian batter's participation in ODI World Cup to be taken soon - Report
