World Cup 2023 [WATCH]: Mohammed Siraj bowls an absolute ripper to help India get rid of Babar Azam during IND vs PAK clash

The much-awaited clash between arch-rivals India and Pakistan in the ODI World Cup 2023 went underway at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad on a thrilling Saturday (October 13). The riveting match not only witnessed Pakistan’s strong start with the bat but also the incredible comeback staged by the Indian cricket team.

Although every bowler in the Indian lineup played their part, it was Mohammed Siraj‘s sensational dismissal of Pakistan skipper Babar Azam that stole the show and set the stage for Team India’s comeback.

Pakistan’s decent start

After being asked to bat first in a high pressure, Pakistan’s innings started off well, with their opening batters showing composure and adding 41 runs before walking back to the pavilion.

However, the early breakthroughs did not deter Pakistan’s spirit as Babar (50) and Mohammad Rizwan (49) steadied the ship, building a solid partnership that put their team in a promising position. It seemed like they might set a formidable target for India until Siraj came into the picture and changed the game with a jaw-dropping delivery to help Men in Blue get rid of Babar.

The Mohammed Siraj showstopper

It all happened during the 30th over when Siraj delivered a breathtaking angled-in good-length ball to Babar, which tempted him to attempt a deft shot towards the third man. But what happened next was nothing short of magical. The ball skidded through sharply, hitting the top of the off-stump with sheer precision.

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Babar was left dumbfounded as the ball sneaked through before his bat could even come down to offer any resistance. Siraj’s lethal combination of pace and skid made it an impossible task for the Pakistani skipper to protect his wicket. The stadium erupted in joy as the Indian team celebrated this incredible breakthrough.

Here’s the video:

The impact of Babar’s dismissal

The dismissal of Babar had an immediate impact on the game. Pakistan, who were looking to set a commanding total, suddenly found themselves on the back foot. The wickets started to tumble at regular intervals, and the pressure mounted on them as they were eventually bowled out for 191 in 42.5 overs.

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