Team India achieved an early advantage in their highly anticipated match against arch-rivals Pakistan, as all-rounder Hardik Pandya successfully dismissed star batsman Babar Azam, providing the team with a crucial breakthrough. Babar, who had scored a half-century in Pakistan's previous encounter against New Zealand, appeared to be in formidable form, striking five exquisite fours to accumulate 23 runs off 24 balls before Hardik induced a thick outside edge, leading to the batter's premature exit.

Babar faced significant criticism from former cricketers and fans in Pakistan for his sluggish performance against New Zealand in the Champions Trophy opener earlier this week. In pursuit of 321 runs, Babar reached his half-century in 81 balls, ultimately finishing with 64 runs off 90 deliveries. However, on Sunday, he exhibited a more aggressive approach, taking on the Indian bowlers right from the start.

He showcased a variety of shots, including his signature cover drive against Hardik Pandya. Yet, in the ninth over, Hardik adjusted his length, pulling it back and positioning it outside off-stump. Although there was minimal movement, it was sufficient to tempt Babar Azam into a drive.

The Pakistan opener, convinced that the cover drive was on, pushed at the delivery, only to produce a faint edge. KL Rahul, alert behind the stumps, quickly moved to his right and executed a low catch.

As the Indian fielders erupted in celebration, Hardik added a dramatic touch by playfully gesturing a ‘bye-bye’ send-off to his counterpart.

Watch:

This was how the wicket fell:

In the subsequent over, Pakistan faced another disappointment when Imam-ul-Haq, the opener who stepped in for the injured Fakhar Zaman, was run out due to a precise throw from Axar Patel.

Pakistan's captain, Mohammad Rizwan, won the toss and chose to bat in Dubai. While Imam's addition was the sole alteration in Pakistan's lineup, India maintained their unchanged squad for this highly anticipated match.

Rohit Sharma's team commenced their Champions Trophy journey earlier this week with an impressive victory over Bangladesh, winning by six wickets in a commanding performance at the same venue.

Read Also: Jasprit Bumrah Skips NCA Rehab, Present in Dubai for India-Pakistan Champions Trophy Encounter

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