'Babar-Rizwan peaked at right time' - Nikhil Chopra as Pakistan storm through finals of T20 World Cup 2022

The much-anticipated clash between Pakistan and New Zealand concluded after the former comprehensively earned the victory and are now on course to play the finals of the ICC T20 World Cup 2022. Class performances displayed by opener duo Mohammad Rizwan and skipper Babar Azam helped the side get past the Kiwis in their run chase.

Both Rizwan and Babar appeared out of form in the Super 12 stage and were not able to hit the ball effortlessly for which they are usually known for. However, the two rose to the occasion and delivered when it mattered the most for the side. Babar played a sublime 42-ball 53 knock whereas his partner at the other end scored 57 off 43 balls. Former India international Nikhil Chopra believes that the duo has hit their fine form at the right time for Pakistan.

“What a game to come back to form! They are the most successful duo considering the numbers they have obtained between them. They were not able to get the runs initially, middle order batters had to pitch in but usually, 60 per cent of the runs come from these two,” said Nikhil on BatBricks7 presents ‘Run Ki Runneeti show’ on CricTracker.

Middle order batters took responsibility: Nikhil Chopra

The former cricketer further stated that when the star openers were unable to click during the Super 12 stage, it was the middle order that helped the side get ahead.

“But you have to appreciate the fact that when these two were unable to get the runs, middle order batters took the responsibility. But now that Babar and Rizwan have got their form back, they look very dangerous! You gave Pakistan a chance in the tournament, now all the departments are performing exceedingly well. They have peaked at the right time indeed,” added Nikhil.

Pakistan now awaits the semi-final result of the India-England fixture to play the summit clash of the marquee event on Sunday, November 13.