Pakistan’s standout player, Babar Azam, engaged in an intriguing exchange with Steve Smith while at the crease during the final innings of the Boxing Day Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Friday (December 29).
Before the commencement of the final session post-Tea, Babar Azam took guard to face off-spinner Nathan Lyon. Fielding in the slips, Steve Smith seemed to have a remark for Babar. In response, Babar Azam amusingly offered his bat to Smith, who humorously declined by gesturing with joined hands toward Babar.
Australia wrapped up their second innings at 262 on the fourth day, setting a target of 317 for the visiting Pakistani team. Despite initial setbacks with the openers, Shan Masood’s spirited innings of 60 runs off 71 balls provided impetus.
Babar Azam, contributing 41 runs, partnered with Masood, adding 61 runs for the third wicket. However, Pat Cummins’ dismissal of Masood and Josh Hazlewood’s removal of Babar disrupted Pakistan’s chase.
Incredible banter!
— Nikhil 🏏 (@CricCrazyNIKS) December 29, 2023
Look at how Babar asks Smith only to bat, when he is getting ready to take guard and Smith goes 🙏
😂 😂 😂#AUSvPAK pic.twitter.com/SYnsDFP7ao
Efforts from Agha Salman (50) and Mohammad Rizwan (35) aimed to keep Pakistan competitive, but they couldn’t sustain. The relentless pace attack from Australia swiftly dismantled Pakistan’s lower order, securing the match and clinching the series for the hosts.