Babar Azam's untimely run out that triggered a collapse in the Pakistani batting ranks

The first Test match between Pakistan and New Zealand turned out to be a humdinger of a contest. In a game that swung both ways, the Black Caps managed to hold their nerves and ended up winning a thriller by just four runs. On the other hand, the Pakistan fans were in a state of shock after watching the collapse. Coach Mickey Arthur seemed quite dejected in the dressing room.

Chasing 176 for victory, Pakistan were cruising at 147/4 with both Babar Azam and Azhar Ali at the crease. With 29 runs required, not many would’ve even given the Kiwis had a chance. What followed, left everyone watching the game shell-shocked. Babar who is well known for his unpredictability was run out at the wrong time and that triggered a Pakistan batting collapse.

Azam edge the ball and Azhar Ali proceeded to run from the non-striker’s end. While Babar was not eager on stealing the run, Azhar had already reached the other end and the youngster had to walk back. New Zealand ended up cashing in on the dismissal and created a panic. Debutant Ajaz Patel struck gold as he accounted for both Sarfraz Ahmed as well as Bilal Asif off consecutive overs.

Yasir Shah and Hasan Ali were both dismissed for ducks as Pakistan were reduced to 164/9 in no time. With Azhar Ali still at the crease, there was still some hope for the batting side. Known for his slow batting, Azhar decided to go defensive as he managed to get 7 runs in the next 7 overs. However, his patience didn’t pay off and was trapped lbw.

It was surely not a pleasing sight for any Pakistani fan. There was a lot of criticism for the way they portrayed themselves as a batting unit. From opting to play untimely slogs to Babar Azam’s lazy run out which instigated the panic. It was all shambles for the No.7 ranked team in Tests.

Here is the Babar Azam run out that changed the course of the game:

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