Babar Azam in unfamiliar territory during New Zealand ODIs

He was sent packing after scoring four runs in the third ODI

By Web Desk
January 13, 2023
Babar Azam walks back to the pavilion during the third ODI — PCB

Pakistan skipper Babar Azam found himself in unfamiliar territory after he was stumped thrice during the three-match ODI series against New Zealand in Karachi.

Before the ongoing series, Azam, who has batted in 93 innings in the 50-over format, was only stumped once in his ODI career.

The right-hander could only muster four runs in the third ODI after notching up scores of 66 and 79 in the previous two matches.

Earlier, Azam won the toss and opted to bat on Friday in the third ODI.

Pakistan were forced to make two changes from their second match lineup as Imam-ul-Haq (hamstring injury) and Naseem Shah (fever) were out, making way for Shan Masood and Mohammad Hasnain.

New Zealand kept the same lineup as the second ODI, also in Karachi, which they won by 79 runs.

The series is tied at 1-1 after Pakistan won the first match by six wickets.

It must be noted that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is set to carry out an extensive review after the end of the home season, with skipper Babar Azam likely to lose captaincy in two of the three formats.

According to sources, the PCB is considering separate captains for all formats of the game with Azam likely to lead the side in only one of them.

The PCB is also considering changes in the Pakistan team management after a disappointing home season — which included a Test whitewash at the hands of England.

The contracts of head coach Saqlain Mushtaq and bowling coach Shaun Tait will expire on February 9, 2023.

The final decision about the changes is likely to be taken after the eight season of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) next month, the sources added.  

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