Former India opener Gautam Gambhir has showered praise on the dynamic partnership of Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman in Pakistan’s triumphant 2023 World Cup match against New Zealand.
The Kiwis had set a formidable 402-run target for the Men in Green in their Bengaluru clash on Saturday.
In a concise review on Star Sports, Gambhir emphasized the unique playing styles of Babar and Fakhar.
“It was an outstanding partnership—confidence on one side and boldness on the other. Each player has their unique strengths. Babar Azam can’t play like Fakhar Zaman, and Fakhar can’t play like Babar. Focus on partnerships, they are the key to winning matches,” he said.
The former India opener specifically noted Babar’s role in enabling Fakhar to bat fearlessly.
“No matter how much you admire Fakhar Zaman’s batting, it’s not enough. Babar Azam supported him brilliantly, enabling Fakhar to showcase his impressive batting style,” he added.
Fakhar’s explosive innings saw him score an unbeaten 126 off just 81 balls, featuring eight fours and 11 sixes.
On the other hand, Babar contributed with a slightly more composed unbeaten 63-ball 66, adorned with six fours and two maximums.