ODI World Cup 2023: [Watch] Noor Ahmad’s Unbelievable Googly Traps Dangerous Babar Azam in PAK vs AFG

Afghanistan’s young spinner, Noor Ahmad, made his World Cup debut for Afghanistan in the team’s clash against Pakistan at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Monday, October 23.

While Noor Ahmad was part of Afghanistan’s World Cup squad, he had yet to play in any of the previous matches. However, due to Fazalhaq Farooqi’s unavailability for the clash against Pakistan, Noor Ahmad was called upon to replace him in the team.

Meanwhile, Noor Ahmad wasted no time in announcing his arrival. He started by dismissing Pakistan’s dangerous opener, Abdullah Shafique, and continued by taking down wicket-keeper Mohammad Rizwan. He then returned to dismiss none other than the Pakistan captain, Babar Azam.

The game-changing incident transpired on the fifth delivery of the 42nd over when Noor Ahmad delivered a tricky googly outside the off-stump. Babar, staying back in his crease, made an attempt to reach it but only managed to find the toe-end of his bat. The ball headed towards extra cover, where Mohammad Nabi made a confident catch.

Watch Video: Noor Ahmad Outsmarts Babar Azam

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— Madhavan (@real_Madhavan) October 23, 2023

The Pakistan captain, who had been relatively subdued in the tournament until now, finally rose to the occasion and guided his team out of trouble by scoring 74 runs from 92 balls. His innings included just four boundaries and a six.

Noor Ahmed’s exceptional bowling against Pakistan made him Afghanistan’s second most economical bowler, with only 49 runs conceded in his 10 overs spell and three wickets claimed. His remarkable performance has undoubtedly raised his prospects for future selections.