(Image Source: AFP)
[Saba Sports News] India and Pakistan Face Off in ODI World Cup 2023 Match 12 in Ahmedabad.
Pakistani opener Imam-ul-Haq scored 36 off 38 balls before being dismissed by Hardik Pandya, who celebrated with a cheeky bye-bye gesture. Interestingly, Hardik Pandya was seen kissing the ball before his run-up, a habit reminiscent of Lasith Malinga, with whom he spent time in the Mumbai Indians dressing room.
Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah opened the bowling, with Abdullah Shafique departing for 20 off Siraj’s bowling.
Babar Azam and Imam formed a promising partnership, broken by Hardik Pandya’s wicket. India aims to contain the partnership between Babar Azam and Mohammed Rizwan, the key batters for Pakistan.
In a show of mutual respect, Babar Azam requested a signed jersey from Virat Kohli after the match, and Arijit Singh, who performed at the venue, witnessed Babar Azam’s dismissal.
Kohli humorously checked an ‘imaginary watch,’ playfully expressing his concern over Mohammed Rizwan’s slow pace while getting ready to bat.