WATCH: Shaheen Afridi brings out his trademark celebration after getting the better of Babar Azam in Champions One-Day Cup

Pakistan's former all-format captain Babar Azam has shown signs of returning to form in the Champions One-Day Cup 2024. After a string of disappointing performances across international formats, the star batter managed to score a fine half-century in the revamped 50-over domestic tournament.

Batting at No. 3 for Stallions, Babar smashed 76 off 79 and also stitched a crucial partnership with Tayyab Tahir for the third wicket. He looked promising to score a century but his hopes were dashed by national teammate and Lions’ skipper Shaheen Afridi. 

Also Watch: Mohammad Rizwan falls to thunderbolt delivery from Mohammad Hasnain during Champions One Day Cup 2024

Babar was flawless against the Lions bowlers during his time at the crease, and it took the captain himself to give a breakthrough for his team. In the 35th over, Shaheen bowled a short delivery that provoked a well-set Babar and hit it out of the park. However, he mistimed the shot and as a result, the ball did not go over the rope.

The ball, eventually, found the hands of Faisal Akram, who was stationed at the deep square. The 114-run stand was broken and Shaheen did not hesitate to celebrate it in his trademark style. Both Shaheen and Babar are Pakistan’s best players at the moment and their rivalry is one that captivates the fans.

Watch the video below:

.@iShaheenAfridi gets the prized wicket of @babarazam258 🦅 #DiscoveringChampions #AlliedBankStallionsvNurpurLions pic.twitter.com/goDNi2MhQs

— Official Champions Cup (@championscuppcb) September 13, 2024

Babar gets POTM as Stallions start their campaign with a massive win

Apart from Babar, Tayyab Tahir, captain Mohammad Haris and Hussain Talat also scored half-centuries for Stallions. Their collective effort took the team total to 336/5 in 50 overs. Shaheen and Ameer Jamal took two wickets each for Lions.

Stallions' bowling attack was impressive right from the start as they picked up wickets at regular intervals and eventually bowled out the opposition for 203 in 39.3 overs. Opener Imam-ul-Haq (78 off 83)  was the lone warrior. Stallions, thus, kicked off their campaign with a massive 133-run win, with Babar winning the Player of the Match for his brilliant knock.

Also Watch: Babar Azam disrespects fan while clicking picture during ongoing Champions Cup