Wicketkeeper Azam Khan faced harsh criticism online after his poor performance persisted in the fourth T20I of Pakistan’s tour of England, which they lost by seven wickets in London on Thursday. However, the team, led by captain Babar Azam, rallied around the young player to offer motivation and comfort.
Khan registered a five-ball duck and subsequently dropped a couple of catches, resulting in him being ridiculed on social media for his lackluster performance both with the bat and as a wicketkeeper.
However, in a video shared on the microblogging social media platform ‘X’, captain Babar was observed approaching Khan, who appeared disheartened near the stumps, and uplifting the 25-year-old with a reassuring pat on his back and some encouraging words.
You can watch the video here:
https://x.com/Sami_ullah_1234/status/1796585067751604706
Following the match, the online critics continued to raise doubts about Khan’s inclusion in the national team and the fitness of the robust cricketer. In the fourth T20I, Pakistan was dismissed for 157 runs, and England comfortably chased down the target to clinch the series with 27 balls to spare.
With this loss, Pakistan ended up losing the four-match series 2-0, as hosts England emerged victorious in the first and last matches, while the games in Leeds and Cardiff were abandoned due to rain. Both teams will now head to the US for the T20 World Cup, where England will aim to defend their title.
Pakistan is placed in Group A in the T20 World Cup 2024
In the T20 World Cup, Pakistan is positioned in Group A, alongside Canada, India, Ireland, and the USA. Babar Azam and his team will commence their campaign on June 6, facing the USA in Texas.
Speaking after Pakistan’s defeat in the series vs England, Babar said, “First six overs, we played very well. After that, the momentum shifted as wickets fell. Our middle-order needs to step up.”
“You need 2-3 good overs in the middle and in the death as well. England’s bowling was very good. Hopefully we don’t do this in the World Cup. We made a couple of changes due to the injuries. Our powerplay was good. We have played good cricket in patches.”
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