Pakistan fans overjoyed as Dinesh Karthik refers Babar Azam the no.1 batsman in the world

After a couple of dismal outings, Babar Azam roared back to form in the third ODI against England and slammed a magnificent century. Coming to bat after opener Fakhar Zaman’s early departure, the Pakistan skipper placed his knock to perfection and scored runs all over the park. Despite not taking too many risks, Azam kept scoring at a good pace and up the ante even further in the end overs.

He ended up scoring a career-best 158 off 139 deliveries as the visitors posted 331/9 while batting first in Birmingham. Notably, Azam was under the pump ahead of this game, having scored 0 and 19 in the first two ODIs. This also gave rise to criticism over his batting prowess. Nevertheless, the top-ranked ODI batsman switched his A-game on and silenced his critics in style.

Dinesh Karthik hails Babar Azam’s brilliant knock

Dinesh Karthik, who was commentating during this clash, also didn’t hold back in praising Azam’s batting exhibition. “World-class batters do not remain out of form for many matches. That is why Babar Azam is the best batsman in the world,” the veteran Indian wicket-keeper remarked after Azam reached the three figures. Pakistan fans were impressed seeing Karthik praising the skipper of India’s arch-rival team. Subsequently, Twitter got flooded with appreciation for the 36-year-old.

Meanwhile, Azam’s effort went in vain as England managed to chase down the mammoth total. Pakistan was in command for the major part of the contest as the Three Lions were restricted to 165/5. However, James Vince didn’t put his guards down and kept his side in the hunt. He scored runs all over the park and slammed a blistering century.

Batting at number seven, all-rounder Lewis Gregory also played a quick-fire 77 to dent Pakistan further. The formalities were completed by fast bowlers Craig Overton and Brydon Carse as the duo played some handy shots in the end overs and took the hosts to a three-wicket win. With this win, a second-string England side whitewashed Pakistan 3-0 in the series.

The two sides will now lock horns in three T20Is, starting on July 16 in Nottingham. While England would like to continue their winning run, Pakistan must have redemption in mind.