Mujeeb Ur Rahman makes history in Pakistan vs. Afghanistan ODI opener, dismissing Babar Azam for a duck. Afghanistan’s spin prowess shines with standout performances from Mujeeb, Nabi, and Rashid Khan.”
In a thrilling clash at the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium in Sri Lanka, Pakistan and Afghanistan squared off in the first match of their three-match ODI series.
The spotlight was on Afghanistan’s formidable spin attack, which managed to rattle Pakistan’s strong batting lineup, leaving them struggling at 189 for 8 after 45 overs.
The encounter took an early twist when Fazalhaq Farooqi of Afghanistan claimed the wicket of the opening batter, Fakhar Zaman, with Pakistan’s score standing at a mere three runs.
However, it was the second over of the innings that etched history as Mujeeb Ur Rahman, the Afghan spinner, trapped none other than the all-format captain, Babar Azam, right in front of the stumps, securing a duck.
This remarkable feat marked Mujeeb Ur Rahman as the first spinner to send the Lahore-born Babar Azam back to the pavilion without scoring in ODI cricket.
It was a significant breakthrough, as Babar Azam hadn’t faced such a dismissal in over two years of 50-over cricket. The last instance of his dismissal without scoring dated back to July 2021 against England.
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Mujeeb Ur Rahman emerged as the standout performer of the match, clinching three crucial wickets. Not far behind, Mohammad Nabi and Rashid Khan displayed their spin prowess, each claiming two wickets to their credit.
The clash between these two cricketing powerhouses showcased the skillful mastery of Afghanistan’s spin attack and the resilience of Pakistan’s batting lineup. As the series unfolds, fans and enthusiasts can expect more intense battles and captivating moments on the field.