Pakistan decided to bat first after winning the toss against South Africa at the Chepauk stadium on October 27, Friday. However, things didn't go as planned for Babar Azam-led Pakistan as their batters yet again put forth an underwhelming show in a do-or-die game. South African bowlers quickly asserted their dominance in the first powerplay, removing Pakistan's top order. It was Marco Jansen who spoiled Pakistan's plans by comprehensively removing both the openers in back-to-back overs. Jansen dismissed Abdullah Shafique at deep square leg, while Imam-ul-Haq edged one to gully to leave Pakistan reeling at 38/2. Mohammad Rizwan and Iftikhar Ahmed followed suit and returned back to pavilion without contributing much. As the team looked to stabilise, captain Babar Azam stepped up, crafting a crucial half-century and steered Pakistan to 136/4 at the end of 27 overs.
Just as Babar Azam looked set for a big score, fate hate to intervene and he ended up throwing up his wicket to leave Pakistan in lurch yet again. While attempting a daring shot, Babar tried a lap sweep against Tabraiz Shamsi, only to nick it off his glove as the ball landed straight into Quinton de Kock's hands.
Even though the umpire remained unperturbed by the loud appeal, de Kock skillfully convinced his captain Temba Bavuma as well as a hesitant Shamsi to challenge the decision. The replays confirmed the wicket-keeper’s suspicion as Ultra Edge fluctuated ever so slightly, leading to a reversal of the decision.
Although the umpire remained wasn't confident to declare that out in the first place. But de Kock loud appeal convinced Temba Bavuma to request for a review. The replays confirmed the wicket-keeper’s suspicion as Ultra Edge clearly showed a slight deviation which saw Babar walking back to the hut after scoring 50 off 65.
Soon after Babar's dismissal, Twitter became a hub of banter and jibes targeting the Pakistan skipper for foolishly throwing away his wicket at the crucial juncture of the match.
Babar's wicket sparked a memefest on social media. This is how the netizens reacted:
After losing Babar, Saud Shakeel came to Pakistan's rescue as he scored an instrumental run-a-ball 52 to help Pakistan to a competitive total of 270.
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