A recent video capturing veteran pacer Mohammad Asif being repeatedly hit for sixes by a rookie cricketer is causing a stir on social media. Asif, who had earlier claimed he could bowl a maiden over to Babar Azam, is now facing trolling for his on-field performance.
The video gaining traction on social platforms shows Mohammad Asif struggling against a newcomer in a local match in the USA. The irony lies in Asif’s prior remarks asserting his ability to bowl a maiden over to Babar Azam even today. These comments have come back to haunt him as he faces criticism for being unable to contain a rookie batsman.
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Asif’s controversial statements targeted Pakistan’s captain, Babar Azam, questioning his ability to score against good deliveries. This led to a response from Babar Azam’s father, Azam Siddique, who asserted that if the need arose, Babar would play a maiden over against Asif as a gesture of respect.
In the midst of this social media drama, Babar Azam is currently in India for the 2023 World Cup. The Pakistani team, in their first warm-up game against New Zealand, suffered a defeat by five wickets. Despite the loss, Babar Azam showcased his form by scoring 80 runs, while Mohammad Rizwan secured a century, and Saud Shakeel contributed with a half-century.
However, concerns are rising about Pakistan’s bowling performance. With Naseem Shah sidelined due to a shoulder injury, the team heavily relies on Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf as their primary wicket-takers. The absence of a quality spinner and Shadab Khan’s inconsistent form further compound the team’s bowling challenges. Despite experts considering Pakistan one of the favourites, formidable obstacles may confront the team in the upcoming World Cup.