PAK v NZ: Imad rates Babar’s knock ‘top of the line’

LAHORE: All-rounder Imad Wasim heaped praise on captain Babar Azam after the latter smashed a phenomenal ton during Pakistan’s 38-run victory in the second T20 international against New Zealand on Saturday in Lahore.

Babar scored 101 runs from 58 balls, marking his third century in the shortest format, to help his side take a 2-0 lead in the five-game series.

In a post-match interview with Babar Azam, Imad called the right-hander ‘the best player in the world’ right now.

“I have seen many innings but this was at the top of the line in my opinion, especially the way he [Babar] carried on after we lost three wickets. The wicket was holding as well. But the way he played was simply brilliant.” he said,

“There’s no doubt that he’s the best player in the world,” he remarked

Meanwhile, centurion Babar attributed the positive mindset as a key factor for his consistency with the bat.

“I try to improve my game day-by-day and play according to the situation,” said Pakistan skipper

“We were on a comfortable stage at the first 10 overs but I have to hold a little bit after back-to-back wickets”

“However, after playing one good over we got the momentum and I felt that we can score 190 or even 200 from there onward,” he said without mentioning any particular over as Pakistan scored overall 46 runs in the last four overs to reach a massive 192-run total.

New Zealand in reply, could only amass 154/7 in their quota of 20 overs thanks to Haris Rauf’s consecutive four-for in two matches.

Pakistan next play the tourists on April 17 at the same venue before the final two matches in Rawalpindi on April 20 and 24.

READ: Hayley’s ton helps Warriors outclass Falcons to lift FairBreak 2023 troph