• Babar Azam was heavily trolled for his slow innings during PAK vs NZ game in Champions Trophy 2025.

  • Babar scored 64 from 90 deliveries at a concerning strike rate of 71.11.

PAK vs NZ: Fans brutally troll Babar Azam for his slow knock during opening game of Champions Trophy 2025
Fans troll Babar Azam (Image Source: X)

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The much-anticipated Champions Trophy 2025 kicked off with a thrilling encounter between Pakistan and New Zealand at the National Stadium in Karachi. Cricket fans were eager to witness the return of the prestigious tournament as the hosts aimed to begin their campaign on a strong note. However, New Zealand proved to be formidable opponents, setting a daunting total for Pakistan to chase.

New Zealand post a competitive total

After being put in to bat first, New Zealand put up a stellar performance, amassing 320/5 in 50 overs. Will Young played a crucial knock, scoring 107 runs, while Tom Latham remained unbeaten on 118, guiding the Kiwis to a challenging total. The Pakistani bowlers struggled to break key partnerships, allowing the visitors to gain the upper hand.

Babar Azam trolled for slow knock in Pakistan’s chase

Chasing a daunting target of 321, Pakistan suffered early setbacks as Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan, and Fakhar Zaman failed to make an impact, leaving the hosts reeling at 69/3. With the pressure mounting, Babar Azam took charge and attempted to stabilize the innings alongside Salman Ali Agha, stitching together a much-needed partnership. However, Babar’s approach was notably conservative, as he focused more on preserving his wicket rather than keeping up with the required run rate. While his intent to anchor the innings was evident, his strike rate of just over 71 did not sit well with the fans, especially in a high-pressure chase where acceleration was crucial.

Despite spending significant time at the crease, the formerPakistani skipper failed to shift gears, allowing New Zealand’s bowlers to maintain control over the game. His eventual dismissal for 64 off 90 balls came at a critical juncture, dealing a severe blow to Pakistan’s already fading hopes of pulling off a successful chase. With the scoreboard pressure increasing and wickets falling at the other end, Pakistan found themselves in deep trouble, struggling to keep up with the ever-mounting required run rate.

As the match slipped further away from Pakistan’s grasp, fans took to social media to express their frustration, criticizing Babar for what they perceived as an overly cautious and selfish knock.

Also WATCH: Glenn Phillips plucks a one-handed screamer to dismiss Mohammad Rizwan in PAK vs NZ clash – Champions Trophy 2025

Here is how fans reacted:

Also READ: PAK vs NZ: Here’s why Fakhar Zaman didn’t open in Champions Trophy 2025 opener

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