WATCH - Champions Trophy 2025: Hardik Pandya dismisses Babar Azam, gives 'bye bye' send off
Babar Azam departed after scoring 23 runs.
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The blockbuster India vs Pakistan clash in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Dubai witnessed Hardik Pandya playing a key role in setting the tone early on. The Indian all-rounder not only picked up the crucial wicket of Pakistan batter Babar Azam but also gestured a sarcastic 'bye-bye' send-off.
The batter initially looked fine touch, hammering five boundaries in his 23-run knock off 26 balls. However, his innings was cut short when Pandya delivered a beautiful delivery that caught the outside edge, with KL Rahul completing a catch behind the stumps. As Azam was returning to the pavilion, Pandya waved at Babar with a 'bye-bye' gesture. The moment quickly went viral on social media.
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49The Men in Green's batting struggles continued from their previous match. After a slow knock against New Zealand, Babar faced criticism over his intent while chasing a target above 300 runs.
Meanwhile, India entered this game after registering a clinical six-wicket victory over Bangladesh in their tournament opener. On the other hand, Pakistan was under pressure after a disappointing 60-run defeat to New Zealand. The ongoing game is a critical one for both the teams, with a semifinal berth on the line for India and this being a must-win situation for Pakistan.
Additionally, the hosts were forced to make a change in their playing XI as Fakhar Zaman has been ruled out with an injury, with Imam-ul-Haq coming in as his replacement.
Pakistan opted to bat first after winning the toss, hoping to put up a strong total against a strong Indian bowling attack. Just as Babar walked out, his opening partner Imam lost his wicket to a brilliant direct hit runout by Axar Patel who was stationed at mid-on.
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