Pakistan were dealt a second blow in as many overs during the Champions Trophy match against India in Dubai on Sunday. After losing Babar Azam, who looked to be in good touch, Pakistan lost their other opener courtesy an Axar Patel bullet of a throw from mid-on.
In the 10th over of Pakistan’s innings, who had won the toss and decide to bat, Imam-ul-Haq pushed at a Kuldeep Yadav delivery towards mid-on where Axar was stationed.The left-handed throw was on the mark and India began their celebrations immediately even as it went to the third umpire for a proper look. A desperate dive from Imam was not enough and the decision was confirmed by the TV umpire.
Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!
An over before, Azam, who has been under pressure, struck five boundaries before edging one behind to KL Rahul off Hardik Pandya.
At the toss, Mohammad Rizwan decided to bat and Pakistan are coming into the must-win clash with one change. Imam came in as a change for Fakhar Zaman.
Pakistan got off to a poor start in home conditions earlier in the tournament – losing the opening game of the competition against New Zealand by 60 runs. They face a must-win situation against India to stay alive in the Champions Trophy.
India, meanwhile, won their opener against Bangladesh by six wickets in Dubai and will look to carry forward their winning momentum. Another win will confirm their spot in the semi-finals.
The last time these two sides met in the Champions Trophy was in 2017, where Pakistan beat India in the final by 180 runs.
