Technical glitch shows Babar Azam’s picture during Afghanistan-Ireland Test

AFG vs IRE Babar Azam (Photo Source: Twitter)

During the Ireland and Afghanistan series, the official broadcasters displayed Babar Azam, the former Pakistan captain, as Afghanistan’s skipper instead of Hashmatullah Shahidi in an unusual mix-up. This gaffe occurred at the outset of the one-off Test at Tolerance Oval in Abu Dhabi on February 28. A viral screengrab circulating on social media captured the moment, sparking amusement and bemusement among cricket viewers worldwide.

Babar, presently at the helm of Peshawar Zalmi in the ongoing 2024 Pakistan Super League (PSL), has steered his team to three victories in five matches this season. His recent scintillating performance included an unbeaten 111 off 63 balls against Islamabad United, featuring two sixes and 14 boundaries. The prolific right-hander leads the T20 tournament’s batting charts, amassing 330 runs in five innings. Azam’s form has continued to please his fans and has brought him back in form in PSL 2024.

Here’s the picture of the viral screenshot:

In the recent five-match T20I series in New Zealand, he showcased his prowess, emerging as Pakistan’s top run-scorer with 213 runs in five innings, boasting a strike rate of 142 and notching three half-centuries. The 29-year-old’s stellar performance positions him as a key player for Pakistan in the upcoming 2024 T20 World Cup, slated for June in the United States of America and the West Indies. Pakistan will anticipate his continued excellence on the global stage.

Ireland assert dominance of Day 1 against Afghanistan

In the one-off Test, Ireland has taken control against Afghanistan on Day 1 as Hashmatullah Shahidi opted to bat first. Afghanistan’s innings concluded at 155 runs, with Ibrahim Zadran leading the charge with a resilient 53 off 83 balls, adorned with nine boundaries. Although Shahidi managed 20 runs from 44 deliveries, he fell short of a substantial score. Ireland’s Mark Adair was instrumental on the opening day, claiming four wickets, shaping the momentum in Ireland’s favour as the game progresses.

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