Pakistan’s wicketkeeper-batter Azam Khan has been facing flak for his inability to score runs of late. His fitness has been in question as well. In addition, his place in the side has been questioned as well. He was given another chance by the team management in Pakistan's campaign opener against co-hosts USA in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024. Azam failed to make it count and was dismissed for a golden duck by left-arm spinner Nosthush Kenjige.
After talking to skipper Babar Azam, he opted for DRS but it went in vain. As a disappointed Azam headed back to the dressing room, he was heckled by the spectators at Grand Prairie Stadium, Dallas.
Azam chose to respond to the heckling and gave the spectator a death stare followed by a few words before heading into the tunnel.
Kenjige struck twice in the 13th over. He broke the partnership between Babar and Shadab Khan as well. Pakistan were reduced to 98/5 in the 13th over. However, cameos from Iftikhar Ahmed and Shaheen Afridi helped Pakistan post a fighting total of 159/7.
No wicketkeeping for Azam
Azam has been criticised for his wicketkeeping as well. He dropped a regulation catch of England's Liam Livingstone last month. Interestingly, he did not keep the wickets against USA as Mohammad Rizwan donned the gloves. Azam was seen fielding inside the 30-yard circle during USA's run chase.
Azam's struggle continues
Azam has been in poor form of late. He registered scores of 11 and 0 in two innings against England in the four-T20I series. He has scored 88 runs from 13 innings at an average of 8.80. Notably, 48 of those runs came against Ireland. His T20I career best knock of unbeaten 30 came against Ireland last month.
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