Fakhar Zaman's reaction to his dismissal [Source: @kuchbhi12341416/X]
Pakistan's experienced opening batter Fakhar Zaman registered a rare failure with the bat, as he was dismissed cheaply in the Tri-Nation series final against New Zealand. Ace speedster William O'Rourke got his prized scalp, dismissing him for ten runs in the high-voltage clash.
The incident occurred during the fourth over of Pakistan's innings after the hosts won the toss and opted to bat first. O'Rourke, who opened the bowling alongside Jacob Duffy, initially kept him under the pump, bowling three consecutive dot balls.
As the explosive left-handed batter tried to break the shackles, O'Rourke reaped the rewards, dismissing him to draw the first blood for the touring side. From over the wicket, the tall pacer bowled a full-length delivery around Fakhar's pads, as the batter flicked it in the air in pursuit of a boundary.
However, he chipped it straight to short mid wicket, where Will Young took a simple catch to send him back to the dugout. Thus, Fakhar, who was expected to provide Pakistan with a flying start, departed for ten runs.
Saud Shakeel Joins Babar Azam In The Middle
After Fakhar Zaman's cheap dismissal, stylish left-handed batter Saud Shakeel joined Babar Azam in the middle. Babar has looked in rhythm so far, hitting a glorious six. As of writing, Pakistan were 29 for one, with Babar and Shakeel batting on 9* and 6*, respectively.