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'When He Plays, It's a Different Ball Game': Babar Azam's Massive Praise On Fakhar Zaman

image-loehx699Fakhar Zaman & Abdullah Shafique made easy work of the target 

Pakistan snapped their four-match losing streak by overpowering Bangladesh with a seven-wicket win during Match 31 the ICC World Cup 2023.

This commanding performance has given Pakistan a significant boost, pushing them up to the fifth position in the World Cup 2023 points table.

Post-match, captain Babar Azam took a moment to commend the team's collective effort. Highlighting Fakhar Zaman's pivotal role, Babar highlighted the match-changing influence the southpaw can have when he occupies the crease for an extended period. He also hoped to carry forward the confidence from this win in the remaining must-win games.


“Yes, thank god. I think all credit goes to the boys. Everything clicked for us today. Yes, we all know that when Fakhar Zaman plays and plays for 20-30 overs, then it will be a different ball game. Yes, we are trying to win the next 2-3 games, and we will check where we sit and will look forward to the rest. This win hopefully gives confidence in the coming matches,” said Babar.



The 29-year-old further lauded the early inroads made by Shaheen Afridi, who provided the initial momentum by clinching vital wickets. Recognizing the crucial role played by the fans, Babar expressed his heartfelt gratitude:

“Yes, we started well. The way Shaheen took the first two wickets, we got a good start. They built a good partnership till around 20 overs, but we came back well with the ball in the middle overs. The main bowlers struck. They kept good lines and lengths. Thanks for coming here and supporting me and my team. Thank you,” added the Lahore born cricketer.

Coming to the game, the Bangladeshi innings, despite promising starts, could only muster 204 runs before getting bundled out in 45.1 overs. Their scoreboard was primarily bolstered by the determined 56 runs from Mahmudullah and a stable 45 from Litton Das.

However, the day belonged to Pakistan's bowlers. Shaheen was particularly menacing, finishing with figures of 3/23 in his 9 overs, whereas Mohammad Wasim Jr. wrapped up with an impressive 3/31 in his 8.1 overs. Their combined efforts ensured Bangladesh was restricted to a chaseable target.

Responding to Bangladesh's total, Pakistan's batting lineup came out with intent. Fakhar was in a league of his own, smearing the ball to all parts of the ground, ending with a brisk 81 off 74 balls. Alongside him, Abdullah Shafique showcased his class with a crucial 68 off 69 deliveries, stabilizing the innings.

Although Mehidy Hasan Miraz exhibited some resistance by grabbing three wickets, it did little to dampen Pakistan's spirits. With determination, Pakistan reached their target in just 32.3 overs, marking a comprehensive seven-wicket victory.