Babar Azam anchored Pakistan’s innings with a gritty 22 on 17 Nov 2023, trying to steady the chase after an early wicket fell to Chris Woakes in the 11th over of the third ODI at Sharjah.
What happened in the match?
Pakistan won the toss and elected to bat against England. The opening pair of Azhar Ali and Babar Azam put on a solid 43‑run stand after ten overs, rotating the strike and finding the boundary regularly. In the 11th over, Woakes bowled a short‑pitched delivery that Azam attempted to hook, but the ball slipped to Adil Rashid at fine‑leg. Azam was out for 22, leaving Pakistan at 45‑1.
The middle order tried to rebuild. Mohammad Hafeez added a quick single before being caught by Jos Buttler off James Taylor’s throw, ending a 47‑run partnership. Hafeez fell short of a half‑century, caught by Root at square‑leg off David Willey in the 30th over. Pakistan slumped to 132‑3.
Sarfraz Ahmed then attempted a big shot off Moeen Ali, only to be caught by substitute fielder Chris Jordan. The hosts were 138‑4, still needing a steady recovery against disciplined English bowling.
Why does this matter for Babar Azam?
Azam’s early dismissal highlighted his vulnerability to short‑ball aggression, a point England’s bowlers exploited. Yet his 22 runs came at a strike rate that kept the run‑rate above 5.5, showing his ability to anchor under pressure. The innings also marked his 100th ODI appearance, a milestone that underscores his consistency for Pakistan.
His partnership with Azhar Ali set a platform that prevented a total collapse. Even after his wicket, the innings demonstrated how Azam’s presence forces opponents to bowl tighter, creating opportunities for the middle order.
What’s next for Pakistan?
With the series tied 1‑1, Pakistan will need to rebuild after the loss of Yasir Shah, who missed the match with a knee injury. Coach Waqar Younis has warned the side to stay focused, as the fourth ODI looms at the same venue. New debutant Zafar Gohar will have a chance to contribute, while senior players must capitalize on any loose deliveries from England’s bowlers.
England, meanwhile, will look to maintain pressure with their pace attack, especially Woakes and Willey, who have already taken key wickets. The next game could swing the series either way, depending on how Pakistan’s batting line‑up adapts without Shah’s spin.
How did the pitch and conditions affect play?
Sharjah’s outfield was slower than usual, making boundary running a challenge. The pitch offered a little assistance to seamers early on, evident from Woakes’ early breakthrough. As the innings progressed, the surface settled, allowing batsmen like Hafeez to find the gaps, but the lack of pace made timing crucial.
Overall, the match showcased a tightly contested battle, with Babar Azam’s effort standing out despite the early setback. Pakistan still has a chance to clinch the series if they can regroup and chase down England’s target in the final ODI.