Shadab is bowling very well but he is not taking wickets: Babar Azam

Pakistan's Asia Cup 2023 journey came to a disappointing end as they faced defeat against defending champions Sri Lanka in a thrilling Super 4 match at Colombo's R. Premadasa Stadium. The match, which kept fans on the edge of their seats, showcased some brilliant performances and a few unexpected turns.

Pakistan managed to set a target of 252/7 in their allotted 42 overs, with Mohammad Rizwan leading the charge with an impressive unbeaten 86 off 73. Abdullah Shafique also made a significant contribution at the top of the order, scoring 52 off 69. However, Sri Lanka's Matheesha Pathirana and Pramod Madushan proved to be formidable opponents, picking up crucial wickets, with Pathirana bagging three scalps.

Sri Lanka, chasing the revised target of 252 runs due to the DLS method, reached the target in 42 overs on the back of Kusal Mendis' 91 off 87 and Charith Asalanka's unbeaten 49 off 47. Pakistan's Iftikhar Ahmed and Shaheen Afridi contributed with three and two wickets, respectively.

One notable highlight of the match was Pakistan's star pacer, Shadab Khan, struggling to regain his form. Despite a promising start to the tournament, Shadab managed to secure only two wickets in the Super 4 stage, facing a drought in the wicket column. Pakistan captain Babar Azam acknowledged Shadab's efforts.

"Shadab is bowling very well but he is not taking any wicket. So that's why you feel he is not bowling well. He is bowling well by unfortunately he is not taking any wickets. He is one of your best bowlers, Nawaz and Shadab," Babar said.

Azam also had praise for Zaman Khan, who showed character and confidence despite the challenging circumstances. He emphasized the difference between domestic and international cricket, highlighting the pressure associated with the latter.

"Yes Zaman Khan has shown character and is doing well in the past, in the PSL and in two PSL finals, where he bowled in the last over. So he has full confidence but international match is a different thing", he added.