On Saturday, England successfully navigated a challenging Eden Gardens pitch, concluding their innings with an imposing total of 338/9 in 50 overs, effectively dashing Pakistan’s hopes of reaching the semi-finals.
Despite this setback, the Men in Green were determined to conclude their World Cup campaign with a victory. However, their batting plans faltered as both openers fell within three overs. In typical fashion, Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam steadied the ship, forming a half-century partnership by the 14th over.
Just when they seemed to be finding their rhythm, disaster struck for the Asian side. In the 14th over, Gus Atkinson attempted a bouncer against the Pakistan skipper, and Babar, instinctively trying to pull it fiercely, failed to connect properly.
The ball ended up in the hands of Adil Rashid at catching midwicket, marking Babar’s third such dismissal in the tournament.
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While Babar remained composed in the challenging moment, Rizwan let his emotions take over, visibly frustrated by the soft dismissal at a crucial juncture.