Pakistan's Azam Khan Criticized as 'Nepotism Example' after T20 Flop

Photo : AFP

Pakistan's wicket-keeper batter, Azam Khan, faced intense backlash from fans following a lackluster performance against England in the fourth T20I encounter. The 25-year-old endured a dismal outing, being dismissed for a duck after facing only five deliveries and also faltering in the field by dropping a couple of straightforward catches. Khan's recent struggles on the pitch, especially ahead of the T20 World Cup 2024, sparked outrage among supporters, particularly given his lineage as the son of former Pakistan captain Moin Khan. His selection for the World Cup had already been a subject of heated debate among fans.

Meanwhile, England showcased a dominant display, securing a convincing seven-wicket victory over Pakistan at The Oval. Opting to bowl first after winning the toss, England's bowlers put up a disciplined performance to restrict Pakistan to a modest total of 157. Leg-spinner Adil Rashid emerged as the standout performer, clinching two crucial wickets while conceding 27 runs from his allotted four overs.

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In response, England's batsmen launched a ferocious assault, spearheaded by Phil Salt and skipper Jos Buttler, who forged a scintillating opening partnership of 82 runs in less than seven overs. Despite a brief resistance from the Pakistan bowling attack, highlighted by Haris Rauf's three wickets for 38 runs, England comfortably chased down the target with more than three overs to spare. Harry Brook sealed the victory in style with a six off Rauf, securing England's triumph in the series with a 2-0 lead, as two matches at Headingley and Cardiff were abandoned due to inclement weather.

Reflecting on the win, Buttler expressed confidence in the team's preparations, emphasizing a positive atmosphere within the squad. The victory served as a morale booster for England as they gear up to defend their Twenty20 World Cup title, signaling their readiness to compete at the highest level on the global stage.