Cricket

T20 World Cup 2022: Rizwan and I were not up to the mark – Babar Azam after win against South Africa

Pakistan captain Babar Azam admitted he and his opening partner Mohammad Rizwan were not up to the mark against South Africa in the 36th match of the ongoing T20 World Cup at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Thursday despite winning by 33 runs (DLS method).

Rizwan could only manage four runs after he chopped the ball back onto the stumps while Azam was caught brilliantly by Kagiso Rabada after making only six runs. Both Rizwan and Azam have been consistent performers for Pakistan but they have failed to bring their best to the table in the ongoing T20 World Cup.

However, Mohammad Haris, playing his first match of the T20 World Cup, was able to hit the blocks as he smashed 28 runs from 11 balls to give the much-needed impetus to his team. But Pakistan found themselves in a rut at 43-4 after losing their top four batters.

However, Iftikhar Ahmed and Shadab Khan were able to get their team back on track. Ahmed scored 51 runs off 35 balls while Khan completed his fifty off just 21 balls. Pakistan was able to post a par score of 185 runs on the board because of these two batters.

On the other hand, South Africa kept losing wickets at regular intervals and could only manage 108-9 after 14 overs. The Proteas’ target was revised to 142 after the rain had halted play after nine overs.

Babar Azam said in the post-match presentation, “Very happy the way team performed. We are not up to the mark – me and Rizwan. But the way Haris played – a different player – set the momentum. And the way Shadab and Ifti finished the innings – outstanding. To be honest, everyone is my best player. Everyone is my match-winner. The first two losses cost us. But the way we have played the last two matches. As you know cricket is a funny game. You never know.”

On the other hand, Shadab Khan rated his knock of 52 as the best on the International stage. The leg-spinner also scalped two wickets and thus he was awarded the Player of the Match.

Khan said after the game, “I have played (batted) like this in PSL, but this is a World Cup match, so it’s my best innings. The pitch was a bit slower compared to Perth. I tried to bowl at the stumps, and it paid off. I like to bat up the order, but it depends on the situation and what the team requires, so I am ready to bat anywhere.”

Pakistan will play their next match against Bangladesh at Adelaide Oval on Sunday.

About the Author


Written by DafaNews

DafaNews brings you the most highlighted news in the world of Sports. It serves you up-to-date matches, scores, live streams, fantasy games and quizzes. Our news covers India's prestigious leagues and events – Premier League, Pro Kabbadi League, Cricket World Cup and many more. Follow DafaNews on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter,Telegram and Youtube for more updates.

Related Post
Share
Published by
DafaNews

Recent Posts

Mohammed Siraj reflects on 4-fer on Day 1 of IND vs WI 2025 1st Test

India’s fast bowler Mohammed Siraj was delighted with his personal performance on the opening day… Read More

October 3, 2025

Aakash Chopra slams West Indies after dismal showing on Day 1 of IND vs WI 2025 1st Test

Former Indian Test opener Aakash Chopra criticized the West Indies’ performance after their mundane performance… Read More

October 3, 2025

Aakash Chopra gives stern warning to Sai Sudharsan after Day 1 of IND vs WI 2025 1st Test

Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra has urged Sai Sudharsan to make the most of his… Read More

October 3, 2025

Aakash Chopra urges KL Rahul to capitalise on home season after Day 1 of IND vs WI 2025 1st Test

Former Indian Test opener Aakash Chopra has urged KL Rahul to continue his rich form… Read More

October 3, 2025

Parthiv Patel urges ‘tentative’ Sai Sudharsan to stay calm against the West Indies

Former Indian wicket-keeper Parthiv Patel has urged Sai Sudharsan to remain calm in the Test… Read More

October 3, 2025

Darren Ganga lauds KL Rahul after Indian opener continues rich form against the West Indies

Former West Indies batter Darren Ganga showered praise on KL Rahul after the Indian opener… Read More

October 3, 2025