PSL 2022: Babar Azam takes stunning one-handed catch to dismiss Asif Ali

The ongoing 6th edition of the Pakistan Super League has provided fans thorough entertainment. From blistering knocks to sensational bowling efforts, it has been a complete treat for the fans to watch. Although Karachi King’s skipper Babar Azam hasn’t had a great PSL 2022 with the bat in hand, he made his presence felt in the field by taking a spectacular one-handed running catch while running backward.

This edition of PSL has also not been short of commendable fielding efforts. One such instance occurred during match 14 between Islamabad United and Karachi Kings. Babar, who’s an excellent batter, showed his mettle in the field by taking an outstanding catch to dismiss United’s hard-hitting batter Asif Ali .

Babar Azam showcases top-notch fielding effort

This instance of a top-notch fielding effort took place in the 17th over during Islamabad’s innings. Nicely poised at 146-3, United had set the stage for a big finish. Asif Ali, who had impressed everyone with his big-hitting abilities in the T20 World Cup in UAE last year, was on strike to face Usman Shinwari.

The left-arm seamer bowled a well-disguised slower one and Ali tried to loft it over covers. The batter mistimed his shot which gave an opportunity to Karachi Kings captain Babar Azam to think of attempting a catch. He was running backward with the ball was going away from him, and it looked like the ball was out of his reach when something extraordinary happened.

Babar outstretched his right hand and the ball fell right into his palm. The commentators could not believe what just happened. A surprised Babar gave a sheepish smile in disbelief of his outstanding fielding effort as Asif Ali had to head back to the pavilion.   

The 27-year-old ended up taking three more catches in the match, in what was a great day for him in the field. However, Babar could not replicate that form in his batting, as he was dismissed cheaply for 8. Following his wicket, the Karachi Kings couldn’t get going and suffered their 5th consecutive defeat in the ongoing PSL. Their chances of going through the next thin are also diminishing with each defeat.