![IND vs PAK [WATCH]: Hardik Pandya provides Babar Azam a cheeky ‘bye-bye’ send-off in Champions Trophy 2025](https://i2.wp.com/crickettimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Hardik-Pandya-sends-back-Babar-Azam-packing-.webp?ssl=1 "IND vs PAK [WATCH]: Hardik Pandya provides Babar Azam a cheeky ‘bye-bye’ send-off in Champions Trophy 2025")
The much-anticipated conflict between arch-rivals India and Pakistan within the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 noticed early fireworks as Hardik Pandya dismissed Pakistan opener Babar Azam within the eighth over on the Dubai Worldwide Cricket Stadium. Pakistan, having gained the toss and opting to bat first, obtained off to a promising begin earlier than Hardik’s essential breakthrough halted their momentum.
Hardik Pandya provides Pakistan early blow in type of Babar Azam
The defining second got here on the second ball of the eighth over, when Pandya bowled a supply that was pitched barely brief and outdoors off. Babar, seemingly trying to play a canopy drive, mistimed his shot and obtained an edge. Wicketkeeper KL Rahul made no mistake, shifting swiftly to his proper to take a pointy low catch. The Indian all-rounder celebrated the dismissal with a cheeky ‘bye-bye’ send-off, underlining the depth of the rivalry.
Babar, who had regarded in tremendous contact with a 23-run knock off 26 balls, together with 5 boundaries, was visibly disillusioned as he walked again to the pavilion. His departure put Pakistan at 41/1 in 8.2 overs, shifting the strain onto the center order.
Following Babar’s dismissal, Pakistan’s innings slowed down as one other opener, Imam-ul-Haq, too departed quickly. He obtained run out by a direct-hit on the stumps by Axar Patel.
Right here’s the video:
Additionally READ: Defined – What if India vs Pakistan match ends in a tie throughout Champions Trophy 2025?
Pakistan beneath strain after shedding each their openers
With Pakistan at 63/2 after 15 overs, the sport is delicately poised. A lot will rely upon Mohammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel, who might want to construct a gentle partnership. However, India will likely be wanting to capitalize on the early breakthrough and push for extra wickets to take care of their dominance within the high-stakes encounter.
Keep tuned for extra updates because the IND vs PAK Champions Trophy 2025 showdown continues!