[Watch] Boom! Axar Patel’s Bullet Throw Runs Out Imam-Ul-Haq in IND vs PAK Champions Trophy Match

Axar Patel produced a sensational direct-hit run-out to dismiss Pakistan opener Imam-ul-Haq during the first innings of the India vs Pakistan Champions Trophy 2025 clash at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

The incident happened in the 10th over of the innings. Wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav bowled a delivery that Imam defended straight back to him. On the next ball, the left-hander stepped out again and pushed the ball towards mid-on, where Axar Patel was stationed.

The Indian all-rounder quickly grabbed the ball and fired a direct hit at the non-striker’s end. Imam, despite his dive, was found short of his crease and had to walk back after scoring 10 runs off 26 balls.

Watch the video here:

Bapu, tari fielding kamaal chhe…!!! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/uL1YObjwvJ

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) February 23, 2025

Imam’s dismissal was a big setback for Pakistan, as the left-hander was making a comeback to international cricket after being out of action since 2023.

He wasn’t originally part of Pakistan’s squad for the Champions Trophy 2025, but injuries to Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman forced the team management to bring him in.

This was the sixth time Imam-ul-Haq was run out in ODIs, further adding to concerns about his running between the wickets. His dismissal left Pakistan in trouble early in the innings, especially after losing captain Babar Azam just an over earlier.

After Imam’s departure, Saud Shakeel and Mohammad Rizwan had the responsibility of steadying Pakistan’s innings. With two quick wickets falling in succession, the pressure was now on Pakistan’s middle order to rebuild and post a competitive total against India.