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In Match 4 of the Champions One-Day Cup 2024, Babar Azam delivered a masterclass in batting at the Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad. As the Stallions chased a challenging target of 232 runs against the Markhors, Babar’s innings was a key highlight. Coming in at No. 3, he exhibited sublime stroke play and poise, setting a high standard with his aggressive approach. His innings became the focal point of the match, showcasing his exceptional form and class.
A stunning over: Five consecutive fours by Babar Azam
Babar’s dominance was particularly evident in the eighth over, where he took on the fast bowler Shahnawaz Dahani with breathtaking flair. After a quiet start with a dot ball, Pakistan’s white-ball captain unleashed a series of aggressive shots that left Dahani and the fielding side reeling. He started with a powerful pull shot, sending the ball racing to the boundary in front of square. Next, he expertly guided the ball down to the third-man region for another boundary.
Dahani’s attempt to intimidate Babar with a short ball only resulted in a thunderous strike through point for a third four. He continued his assault with a deft square drive for a fourth boundary and finished the over with a fierce pull shot that soared to the boundary once again. This remarkable display of batting prowess propelled the Stallions to a strong position at 47 for one after eight overs.
Here’s the video:
Dahani vs Babar 📸 #UMTMarkhorsvAlliedBankStallions #DiscoveringChampions #BahriaTownChampionsCup pic.twitter.com/hXyCY8evW8
— Bahria Town Champions Cup (@championscuppcb) September 15, 2024
Also READ: Champions One-Day Cup 2024 Schedule: Date, Match Time, Broadcast & Live Streaming details
Babar’s departure and Stallions’ collapse against Markhors
Despite Babar’s brilliant innings, the Stallions experienced a dramatic collapse, losing their last eight wickets for a mere 26 runs over the course of 8.4 overs. Babar, who had been a beacon of hope for his team, was eventually dismissed by leg-spinner Zahid Mahmood. Babar’s attempt to play another pull shot resulted in a straightforward catch at short fine leg, ending his innings. Mahmood’s exceptional spell of 5/18 dismantled the Stallions’ batting line-up, leading to their collapse and a final total of 105 all out in just 23.4 overs.
Babar remains a standout performer in the tournament, currently ranking as the second-highest run-scorer with 121 runs from two matches at an average of 60.50. His impressive performances continue to be a highlight despite the Stallions’ defeat.
Champions One-Day Cup standings
The Champions Cup points table currently leads with Markhors, who have won both of their matches, accumulating 27 points with a strong net run rate of 2.860. Stallions sit in second place with one win and one loss, totaling 14 points and a net run rate of 0.070. Panthers are in third, having won one game and lost another, with 11 points and a negative net run rate of -1.100. Dolphins and Lions follow in fourth and fifth place, respectively, both yet to secure a win, with net run rates of -1.000 and -2.660. Markhors will next face Dolphins and Lions, while Stallions are set to play against Panthers and Dolphins.
