Battle of Titans: Shubman Gill Faces Off Against Babar Azam in Indo-Pak Match

10 sep, (VNI) Ahead of the forthcoming clash between India and Pakistan in the Super 4 game of the Asia Cup 2023, India's opener Shubman Gill expressed admiration for Pakistan's standout batter, Babar Azam, acknowledging him as an exceptional player on the global stage. The ongoing continental tournament has witnessed impressive performances from the Pakistani skipper. Over the course of three matches spanning two innings, Babar has notched up an impressive total of 168 runs, boasting an average of 84.

When queried by a journalist about whether the Indian players also closely observe the playing style of Pakistani batters like Babar, Gill affirmed, "Indeed, we do keep an eye on him. Whenever a player excels, it's only natural to study what sets them apart, to understand their unique strengths. The same applies to Babar. He truly stands as a world-class player, and we all hold him in high regard."

Notably, India and Pakistan have already encountered each other earlier in the tournament, with the match taking place in Pallekele on September 2. Regrettably, it was eventually called off due to adverse weather conditions.

During the match, India posted a total of 266 runs before being bowled out, with Shaheen Afridi clinching an impressive four-wicket haul. Despite commendable half-centuries from Hardik Pandya (87) and Ishan Kishan (82), the left-arm pacer, Afridi, proved to be a formidable force, thwarting the Indian team's advances.

Regrettably, Pakistan's pursuit of the target was curtailed by persistent rain, ultimately leading to the abandonment of the match.