Pakistan launched an onslaught through centurion Fakhar Zaman to win a rain-hit World Cup game by 21 runs via the DLS method on Saturday and stay alive in the hunt for a semi-final spot.
Chasing 402 to win the high-stakes clash, Pakistan took the attack to New Zealand as Fakhar hit a blistering century off 63 balls and Babar Azam inched towards his fifty when rain halted play with the score on 160-1 in 21.3 overs.
The target was revised to 342 in 41 overs and Fakhar picked up from where he left off, reaching 126 not out with eight fours and 11 sixes, while Babar struck an unbeaten 66 but the showers returned with Pakistan adding 40 to their total in four overs.
Pakistan’s fireworks meant they were 21 runs ahead of the DLS par score when the game was eventually called off, ensuring a victory that took them to eight points from as many matches – level on points with fourth-placed New Zealand.
Gautam Gambhir expresses admiration for Fakhar Zaman’s fearless batting, emphasizing the crucial role played by Babar Azam in supporting him. Gambhir suggests that Fakhar’s aggressive approach was made possible because of the assurance provided by Babar’s presence on the other end of the crease.
“No matter how much you praise Fakhar Zaman, it is less, because of the way he batted, but Babar Azam supported him brilliantly as well. Fakhar could bat like that because Babar was at the other end,” Gambhir said on Star Sports.
“If Babar Azam had gotten out, or one or two more wickets had fallen, Fakhar Zaman might have had to go into his shell. It was an exceptional partnership. Assurity at one end and aggression at the other. Every player has his own strengths. Babar Azam cannot play like Fakhar Zaman and Fakhar cannot play like Babar. So look towards partnerships, they will win you matches,” he added.
Looking ahead to Pakistan’s last group stage match against England, Gambhir emphasized the importance of Babar Azam’s role, stating that his ability to anchor the innings is crucial for Pakistan’s success.
“So for Pakistan, if Fakhar Zaman, Iftikhar Ahmed and Mohammad Rizwan have to bat freely, Babar needs to stand at one end. The next match is a must-win game for Pakistan. Babar hasn’t scored a century in India thus far. If he gets set, we might get to see a century but it is more important for Pakistan to win,” he concluded.