In today’s T20 World Cup 2021 match between the two sides, Aakash Chopra believes Team India must keep away from Babar Azam’s strong areas in order to dismiss the Pakistan captain.
Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan are anticipated to bat at the top of the order for Pakistan. The Indian bowlers would want to dismiss the dangerous combo early in order to increase the pressure on Pakistan’s remaining batting.
“At times, you need to know your opponents’ strengths more than their weaknesses, where you should not bowl to him. He plays very well square of the wicket, he plays a good cut and punch.” He responded
“Actually he plays very well on the off-side, Babar Azam also plays very good drives on the rise, through the off-side. At times, he reminds you of Virat Kohli, he plays such beautiful drives.” Chopra observed
In T20I cricket, Babar Azam has an outstanding overall record. In 61 T20Is, the elegant batsman has amassed 2204 runs at an amazing average of 46.89 and an impressive strike rate of 130.64.
With approaching deliveries, Indian seamers, according to Aakash Chopra, should target Babar Azam.
Jasprit Bumrah
“So where you need to bowl to him, I will say within the three stumps. He scores fewer runs down the ground. So bowl him in the incoming deliveries within the stumps at the start with the new ball – Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami.” He elaborated
Babar Azam, according to the 44-year-old, could be removed if Team India denies him runs in his strong areas.
“I am saying don’t give him the room, keep him quiet there. You can push the square leg fielder back and try to get him leg-before or bowled. If you bowl that close, the chances of getting caught behind will also be created. You should also bowl an odd bouncer in between.” Chopra explained
Therefore, In the shortest format of the game, Babar Azam has never faced Team India. In five One-Day Internationals against the Indians, the right-handed batsman has averaged a little below-par 31.60.
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