Babar Azam shines with fifty as Rangpur seals nail-biter win over Strikers

Rangpur Riders emerged victorious against Sylhet Strikers, propelled by an outstanding performance from former Pakistan captain Babar Azam, in the ongoing Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) 2024.

The anticipation was high as Rangpur captain Nurul Hasan Sohan confidently declared Babar's inclusion in the playing XI during the toss, asserting, "Obviously King Babar is in for the match." 

pic.twitter.com/Eg4KZjb6li

— Hassan II (@Mediaa009) January 23, 2024

After being asked to bat first, Sylhet Strikers found themselves limited to a total of 120 runs, having lost eight wickets in the first innings. 

A standout moment occurred when Babar Azam, stationed at the boundary, displayed remarkable athleticism by sprinting in, retrieving the ball, and executing a direct hit to dismiss Dushan Hemantha in the final over.

Babar Azam's direct hit results in a brilliant run-out of Dushan Hemantha 🔥#BPL2024 #BabarAzam𓃵pic.twitter.com/cXqLr8glKV

— Cricket Pakistan (@cricketpakcompk) January 23, 2024

The atmosphere in the stadium became electric as Babar Azam stepped onto the field, receiving a thunderous welcome from passionate cricket enthusiasts. 
The crowd erupted into chants of 'Babar Babar,' underscoring their admiration for the cricket sensation.

Insane Stardom🔥..we so massive !!! 🤗
Be it Pindi, Karachi, Lahore, Melbourne, Cape town, Kolkatta, Colombo or Christchurch…. Loud Cheers just follow him like a shadow. #BabarAzam𓃵 #BPL24 pic.twitter.com/mZT323BAKD

— Zaby :) (@OverThinkerSays) January 23, 2024

As Rangpur Riders began their chase, the team faced a challenging situation as they lost six wickets at the score of 39.

Babar and Azmatullah Omarzai joined forces to form a match-winning partnership of 89 runs, ultimately propelling Rangpur Riders to victory in a closely contested match. Their strong partnership and good batting led to a thrilling victory by 4 wickets as they reached the target in 18.2 overs.

 Babar Azam played a pivotal role, remaining unbeaten with a well-crafted 56 runs from 49 deliveries, including six boundaries, at a striking rate of 114.28.

Babar Azam hits a four after a flurry of wickets from the other end 👏🏽👏🏽

Rangpur Riders 50/6 in 9 overs now. They need 71 runs in 11 overs. Can they win it? 👀pic.twitter.com/YSSIkGlOXf

— Farid Khan (@_FaridKhan) January 23, 2024