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[Watch] Babar Azam's One-Handed Blinder At First Slip Dismisses Angelo Mathews at Galle

image-lk9n9i37Babar Azam showed quick reflexes to complete the catch (AP Photo)

Pakistan captain, Babar Azam is quickly gaining reputation as a world-class slip fielder. The Pakistan talisman showed brilliant display of athleticism and acuity on Day 4 of the ongoing first Test match against Sri Lanka at the Galle International Stadium.


Babar unbelievable agility gets rid of Mathews 

Babar pulled off a spectacular one-handed catch to oust Sri Lankan mainstay, Angelo Mathews for just seven. This wasn't the first time Babar displayed his catching ability as he had already made his mark in the first innings with a splendid catch at second slip to dismiss Dinesh Chandimal.

The visitors were in a commanding position, with the first innings' advantage bolstered by Saud Shakeel's double century. As the Sri Lankan batting order resumed at 18-0 on Day 4, the hosts lost key batsmen Dimuth Karunaratne and Kusal Mendis in less than 25 overs.

Sri Lanka looked towards Mathews, who had fought bravely in the first innings with 64 runs off 109 balls, to salvage the situation. Nevertheless, his innings was cut short by an exceptional piece of fielding from Babar.

During the 33rd over of the match, left-arm spinner, Noman Ali tossed a well-calibrated delivery around the off-stump. Mathews, on the defense, edged the ball which then darted at blistering speed towards an alert Babar at slip.

Displaying his impressive athleticism and instinctive reflexes, Babar flung himself to his left, fully extending his arm and snatching the ball out of the air in a jaw-dropping, one-handed grab. The dismissal was greeted by a disappointed sigh from the hosts while the Pakistani side savoured the pivotal breakthrough.

Sri Lanka have got bundled out for 279 runs, and Pakistan have got the target of 131 runs to get their maiden victory in the current World Test Championship (WTC 2023-25) cycle.