[WATCH]: Babar Azam’s Elegant Cover Drive Electrifies Karachi Crowd Against New Zealand

The Champions Trophy 2025 has brought exciting cricket action, and in the ongoing match between Pakistan and New Zealand at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi, the Blackcaps have taken complete control. Batting first, New Zealand posted a formidable total of 320 runs, putting Pakistan under immense pressure right from the start.

New Zealand’s Dominant Batting Performance

Right from the start, the Kiwis were in complete control. Exceptional centuries from Will Young and Tom Latham propelled New Zealand to a formidable total, presenting Pakistan with a daunting challenge.

Opening the innings alongside Devon Conway, Will Young played a composed knock of 107 runs off 130 balls, including 12 boundaries and a six, effectively anchoring New Zealand’s batting. Tom Latham, leading from the front, remained unbeaten with a powerful 118* off just 104 deliveries. His aggressive approach, which featured 10 fours and three sixes, ensured New Zealand capitalized on their strong start and set a massive target for Pakistan.

Pakistan’s Early Struggles with the Bat

Chasing 321, Pakistan suffered a major blow early on as Saud Shakeel was dismissed cheaply. His wicket left the team in deep trouble, adding pressure on the remaining batters. Due to spending excessive time outside the field during Pakistan’s bowling innings, Fakhar Zaman was ineligible to open, leading to a reshuffle in the batting order. With Pakistan losing an early wicket and Fakhar Zaman unable to open, the responsibility fell on Babar Azam’s shoulders. As the most experienced batter in the lineup, the expectations were sky-high.

Babar’s Brilliant Cover Drive Sets the Tone

Despite the pressure, Babar Azam showcased his elegance with a stunning cover drive off Matt Henry in the fifth over. This picture-perfect stroke was hailed by fans, offering a glimpse of his class. Babar Azam punished Matt Henry with his signature shot, driving a four between short extra-cover and mid-off in the fifth over.

CRUNCHED on the backfoot! 🤩

After a couple of hiccups, #BabarAzam is leading the way for Pakistan in this crunch run-chase!

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— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) February 19, 2025

Babar Azam’s Form Under Scrutiny

Babar Azam has struggled to convert starts into big scores. His last ODI century came in August 2023 against Nepal, and he has faced criticism for his inability to play long innings. His dip in form has been a major talking point, with critics questioning his ability to lead Pakistan’s batting lineup in crucial matches.

Babar Azam last 10 innings

The Current Match Situation

As of the latest update, Pakistan stands at 22/2 after 10 overs, with Babar Azam batting on 12 off 27 balls, including two boundaries. The required run rate continues to climb, making the chase even more challenging.