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‘Fakhar Batted On A Different Wicket…,’ Babar Azam Hails Opener After Stunning Ton vs NZ

image-lok5gd4iBabar Azam congratulates Fakhar Zaman for his World Cup 2023 century (AP)

Pakistan captain Babar Azam notched up his fourth half-century of the 2023 World Cup by slapping an unbeaten 66 against New Zealand in their must-win game. The batting veteran forged 194* runs with opener Fakhar Zaman, who belted 11 sixes in his entertaining 126*.

The two cricketers orchestrated a run-chase masterclass for Pakistan until rains halted play in Bengaluru. As Pakistan walked away with the all-important two points, courtesy of a DLS win, captain Babar praised his star opening batsman for shaping up a match-winning century against New Zealand’s bowling attack.

Babar praises Fakhar as PAK stay alive in WC 2023

After the match, Babar Azam heaped huge praise on Fakhar Zaman for his match-winning knock, one which shot Pakistan back into the semi-final reckoning. While speaking in the post-match presentation, the ‘Men in Green’ skipper revealed the mindset behind their partnership and hoped to carry this newfound winning momentum to Pakistan’s remaining fixture of the tournament. He said:

“When we came out to bat, we were confident about our chances. I told Fakhar Zaman to hang around for 15 overs, and we'll be ahead. Fakhar and I stitched a solid partnership. Fakhar was literally batting on a different wicket. We were aware that there was a short boundary, and we utilized it. We just want to give our best. Unfortunately, we couldn't do well in some games. Hopefully, we'll carry the momentum to our next fixture."

Pakistan, under Babar Azam, will now face defending champions England in their final group match of the tournament. Currently placed at number five on the World Cup 2023 points table, a win over England with an emphatic margin might well help them secure a top four finish ahead of the semi-finals.