T20 World Cup 2022: "Advantage Pakistan" - Fans roast Babar Azam for his slow innings against England in summit clash

Pakistan captain Babar Azam failed to step up against England in their T20 World Cup final in Melbourne on Sunday (November 13). The right-handed batter scored 32 off 28 at a rather sedate strike rate of 114.29, which included only two boundaries.

Azam fell prey to England spinner Adil Rashid, who bowled a googly and grabbed the return catch to reduce Pakistan to 84-3 in 11.1 overs.

Babar Azam vs Adil Rashid H2H in T20Is: 66 runs, 4 dismissals

The 27-year-old failed to leave an impact in the tournament, scoring 120 runs in seven games. His only half-century came against New Zealand in the T20 World Cup semifinal. Fans expressed their disappointment with Azam for his slow innings in the crunch game.

Here are some reactions:

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Babar Azam and Co. set 138-run target for England in T20 World Cup 2022 final

A clinical bowling performance from England helped them restrict Pakistan to a below-par score of 137-8 in their allotted 20 overs. Sam Curran was the pick of the bowlers with 3-12, while Chris Jordan and Adil Rashid picked up a couple of wickets each. Ben Stokes was also among the wickets.

Shan Masood was the top-scorer for Pakistan with 38 off 28, with the other batters having an off day. The onus will be on Pakistan's bowlers after England beat India by ten wickets, chasing 169 with a whopping four overs to spare.

In a repeat of the 1992 World Cup final (50-over), Pakistan and England are battling for the ultimate prize at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) after 30 years.

Former Pakistan World Cup-winning captain Imran Khan shared a special message for Babar Azam and Co. ahead of the game. In a tweet, the former Pakistan all-rounder and Prime Minister wrote:

“My msg to Pak cricket team today is the same I gave our team in the 1992 World Cup Final. First: enjoy the day as one rarely gets to play in a World Cup final, & don't get overawed by it.

He continued:

“Second: you will win if you are willing to take risks & can cash in on mistakes by opponents; that means playing with an attacking mindset. Good luck; the whole nation is praying for your success."

Younis Khan-led Pakistan lifted the T20 World Cup in 2009, while England won their maiden title under Paul Collingwood. The winner will join West Indies as the second team to win the competition twice.