WATCH - Champions Trophy 2025: Hardik Pandya dismisses Babar Azam, gives 'bye bye' send off
Babar Azam departed after scoring 23 runs.
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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