Hardik Pandya delivers a stunning delivery to Babar Azam, and he’s bowled out! What a sensational delivery from Hardik Pandya, a massive inswinger that proved too challenging for the Pakistani captain. It landed just outside off stump and seamed in dramatically, leaving no room for Babar to respond.
It sneaked through the gap between bat and pad, ultimately demolishing the top of the off stump. The delivery had such movement that it left everyone, including Babar and Hardik, in disbelief.
What a dominant performance this has been! This was anticipated to be the most intimidating bowling attack of the tournament, but the Indian team has utterly outclassed them. It all began with the opening duo of Rohit and Shubman Gill displaying a proactive approach against the new ball.
Rohit had a shaky start against the fast bowlers but quickly compensated by taking on Shadab Khan, accumulating 19 runs in a single over. Both openers notched up half-centuries before succumbing to successive dismissals.
Then came the rain, resulting in a lengthy delay and the subsequent rescheduled match day – something that Pakistan will undoubtedly lament the weather Gods for. KL Rahul and Kohli initially played with careful calculation, gradually shifting their focus towards the part-time bowlers, seizing their opportunities perfectly.
Pakistan lose their main man Babar Azam… 😔
— Cricket on TNT Sports (@cricketontnt) September 11, 2023
A long way back for them now. #INDvPAK pic.twitter.com/9qLUnJKBzs
It marked an extraordinary comeback for KL Rahul in ODI cricket, as he regained his elegant touch, displaying exquisite flicks and drives en route to yet another century. Meanwhile, Virat Kohli, stationed at the other end, provided a masterclass in swift running between the wickets, maintaining a busy strike rate of nearly 130, despite not matching Rahul’s boundary count.