During the first T20I cricket match between Pakistan and New Zealand, a touching moment occurred when Babar Azam went over to hug Shaheen Afridi just before the start of the game. The video of the heartwarming gesture quickly went viral on social media, emphasizing the strong bond between the two players.
This display of camaraderie comes in the midst of rumors about tension between Babar and Shaheen after Babar was chosen to replace Shaheen as the T20 captain for Pakistan. However, Babar clarified in a press conference prior to the series that there was no such conflict between them. He affirmed their strong relationship and shared goal of winning matches for Pakistan.
“I am surprised by the rumors on social media. Shaheen and I have a great bond. Our focus is on playing and winning matches for Pakistan. That is our only priority,” Babar Azam stated before the five-match T20I series against New Zealand.
The match did not begin as planned due to heavy rain and wet field conditions. Players had to leave the field just before Shaheen Afridi was set to deliver the first ball of the match.
Before the match started, New Zealand won the toss, and captain Michael Bracewell opted to bat first. Both teams featured new players making their debuts. Pakistan introduced Usman Khan, Irfan Khan Niazi, and Abrar Ahmed, while New Zealand debuted Josh Clarkson.
The Pakistani team included Babar Azam as captain, alongside Saim Ayub, Mohammad Rizwan, Usman Khan, Iftikhar Ahmed, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Amir, and Abrar Ahmed.
