Overview:
Mohammad Rizwan powered to an unbeaten 79, while Babar Azam supported him with an unbeaten 68, sealing a memorable victory.
Babar Azam revealed that his most memorable achievement as Pakistan’s leader came in the 2021 T20 World Cup, when the team registered a 10-wicket win over India, cementing a historic moment in the rivalry.
Pakistan ended their 12-match World Cup drought against India with a commanding performance in Dubai. After choosing to bowl first, Pakistan’s attack kept India to a manageable 151. Apart from Virat Kohli’s steady fifty and Rishabh Pant’s quickfire 39 from 30 balls, the Indian innings struggled for momentum. Shaheen Afridi set the stage on fire with a brilliant spell that earned him three wickets and disrupted India’s top order. Chasing 152, Pakistan looked unfazed and wrapped up the game in just 17.5 overs. Mohammad Rizwan powered to an unbeaten 79, while Babar Azam supported him with an unbeaten 68, sealing a memorable victory.
“Defeating India holds great significance for me. That match in 2021, when we thumped India in the T20 World Cup, is one of my most cherished memories. It was the first time I beat India as Pakistan’s captain in a World Cup,” Babar said while speaking to Kevin Pietersen on his YouTube show The Switch.
After hearing Babar shared his thoughts, Pietersen remarked that the India–Pakistan rivalry is the biggest sporting spectacle.
“I’ve always maintained that it’s the biggest sporting spectacle on the planet—nothing compares to it. People mention the FIFA World Cup final, but this stands above everything. I truly wish I had played in one of those matches. I experienced the Ashes and was fortunate to be part of that, but I still wish I could have taken part in the India vs Pakistan match,” Pietersen said.