Champions Trophy 2025: Pakistan fans leave stadium after Babar Azam dismissal in dismal batting show by hosts vs New Zealand

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Champions Trophy 2025 witnessed a dramatic turn of events on the opening day as Pakistan's batting collapse forced disillusioned fans to leave the National Stadium in Karachi on February 19.

The hosts' dismal display was followed by the dismissal of their star batter, Babar Azam, whose departure proved to be the tipping point in an already precarious chase against a determined New Zealand side.

Babar Azam, who had been carrying the hopes of the entire innings, fell for 64 off 90 balls after being trapped by Mitchell Santner's cunning spin. The left-arm pacer, who had been delivering loopy, teasing deliveries, finally managed to induce a top edge when Babar attempted a sweep shot. The edged ball sailed directly into the hands of Kane Williamson at short mid-wicket, abruptly ending what had been a gritty knock. With Babar's exit, the momentum shifted dramatically, and the stadium soon filled with an air of despair.

The setback was especially severe given the context of the match. Pakistan, chasing a formidable target of 321 runs, now found themselves in a difficult position. At the time of writing, the scoreboard read 183/6 in 38 overs with Khushdil Shah holding on at 32 not out and Shaheen Afridi struggling to get going at 10 not out. The loss of their key batsman at a crucial juncture left the middle order scrambling for answers and the prospect of a successful chase growing increasingly remote.

Earlier in the innings, there had been flashes of aggressive intent from Babar Azam, who had managed to hit a boundary through a well-timed sweep. However, his dismissal not only deprived Pakistan of his stabilizing presence but also raised doubts about the overall effectiveness of the batting lineup. With the required run rate escalating and only four wickets in hand, the pressure mounted on the remaining batsmen to claw back into the game.

The scene in the stadium was a reflection of the mounting frustration among Pakistan supporters. As the dismal batting show unfolded, many fans, realizing the slim chances of a turnaround, began to leave the stands. Their departure served as a stark commentary on the team's performance and the weight of expectation resting on the shoulders of the remaining players.