PAK vs ENG: Babar Azam walks off the field in frustration after being run-out

The Babar Azam-led Pakistan came into the third Test against England with a lot of conviction despite losing the first two Tests. The experienced Jack Leach and the youngster Reham Ahmed shared six wickets between themselves and England dismissed Pakistan for 304 runs on the very first day of the final test match.

Babar Azam’s decision of electing to bat after winning the toss looked correct as the top-order batters provided the hosts with a good start. But the spinners played a big role in the game later on. While Leach picked up four wickets, Ahmed ended with two wickets to his name. But one thing that grabbed everyone’s attention was Babar’s reaction after being dismissed in the first innings.

Babar ended as Pakistan’s top run-scorer in the first innings with his 123-ball 78. But a terrible run-out led to him walking off the field, and back to the dugout, in agony and frustration.

On the final ball of the 59^th over, Agha Salman sent the ball towards the leg side, but confusion between him and Babar for the single led to the skipper getting run out. Ben Foakes collected the ball brilliantly, thrown by Harry Brook, and dislodged the stumps quickly. While walking off the field, Babar was seen uttering a few words in frustration and looked anguished.

Here’s the video:

 

But, it was a memorable day for England’s Rehan Ahmed. Making his debut at 18 years and 126 days, he became the youngest-ever player to represent England in Tests. The two wickets of Saud Shakeel and Faheem Ashraf were a cherry on top for the young spinner. England have already clinched the series by winning the first two games, and thus Rehan will be elated to finish the ongoing third Test with the winning side.

Pakistan’s loss in the first two games has put their World Test Championship finals hopes in jeopardy. Australia are dominating on top of the points table and having won multiple games this season, they have made a strong case for the WTC Finals.