Babar Azam opens up on the losing the series decider  


image-l8rrmts1Babar Azam. (PC- Twitter)

England completed a solid performance against Pakistan as they completely thrashed the hosts during the seventh and final T20I encounter played at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on October 2 (Sunday).

England, batting first, on the invitation of opposition skipper Babar Azam, came hard at Pakistan bowlers as they amassed a massive total of 209/3 in the allotted 20 overs, thanks to valuable contributions from Dawid Malan, Harry Brook, and Ben Duckett.

The visitors then restricted the home team to 142-8 to end their first tour to Pakistan in 17 years with a series victory by winning the decider last game by 67 runs.

England's premier new ball bowler Chris Woakes struck early by dismissing Babar Azam for 4 runs in the opening over to give a major setback to the home team.

Babar scored just four runs in four balls with the help of just one boundary. While Reece Topley dismissed Mohammad Rizwan for 1 run in the second over. Pakistan's chase appeared to be over in 9 balls as they were reduced to 5 for 2 after losing their two batting heavyweights in skipper Babar and the number one T20I batter Rizwan.

Pakistan were chasing a massive target of 210. In the end, Pakistan fell short by 67 runs which also cost them the series 4-3. It was a forgettable evening for Babar as he was also seen dropping a catch. 


200 was difficult to chase: Babar

Speaking at the end of the game, Babar opened up on his team's performance in the series decider. Pakistan's all-format captain said it was difficult to chase down a 200-plus total after losing early wickets in the powerplay. He also reserved special praise for Speedster Haris Rauf who impressed again by giving away just 24 runs in his 4 overs.

"It was definitely difficult. With 200 runs on the board, if we lose early wickets, it puts pressure on the other batters. This series was vital for us. We need to improve in the shortest format. 

I also mentioned at the toss, that we have a good bowling attack. Haris is bowling well, and he is improving every day. I think entire Pakistan was waiting for this, even we were happy to host England,"  said Babar Azam in the post-match presentation.


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