LAHORE: Shadab Khan, Pakistan’s vice-captain, had an interesting day against the Netherlands on Sunday, spinning a web around the Dutch hitters. After going winless in their first two Super 12 matches, Babar Azam’s Pakistan was keen to resume their ICC T20 World Cup campaign as they faced the Netherlands at Optus stadium in Perth.
Shadab emerged as the Green Army’s bowler of choice in match No. 29 of the T20 World Cup. As Pakistan reduced the Netherlands to 91-9 in 20 overs, the ace spinner dismissed Max ODowd, Colin Ackermann, and Tom Cooper. Shadab took three wickets and allowed 22 runs against the Dutch. The Green Army’s seasoned campaigner was voted Player of the Match for his all-around performance against the Netherlands.
Shadab was asked about Babar’s slump in form at the T20 World Cup during the regular post-match news conference. Babar, regarded as one of the best batters in all formats, has battled for form in the T20 World Cup Super 12 stage. Shadab, who has come out in favor of Pakistan’s captain, believes Babar is one good knock away from silence.
“He is a world-class player, no doubt, but he is human also. Sometimes, he makes mistakes, but he is our leader; he is our best captain. He supported us, so we have to support him now. It’s just three games; no one should worry about his form because he is a world-class player,” Shadab said. Pakistan captain Babar has scored eight runs in three innings at the T20 World Cup.
“He is one shot away from returning to form. Like Rizwan today, he scored runs. So hopefully, Babar scores for us in the next game. The next game is a big one, so hopefully, he will score a run for the team,” he added. Babar-led Pakistan will meet South Africa in the Super 12 stage of the T20 World Cup at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) on Thursday.
