Pakistan vs Australia: Enjoyed each minute of Babar Azam’s knock in 2nd ODI, says Marnus Labuschange

Australia batter Marnus Labuschagne heaped reward on Babar Azam after the Pakistan skipper hit a match-winning 114 in simply 83 balls within the 2nd ODI in Lahore on Thursday. Not letting the frustration of the defeat are available in the best way, Labuschagne stated he learnt loads watching Babar go concerning the chase towards Australia.

Babar’s masterclass which included 11 boundaries and a six helped Pakistan chase down a 349-run goal and stage the 3-match ODI sequence 1-1.

Babar, ably supported by fellow centurion Imam-ul-Haq, scored his fifteenth ODI century in 83 innings, which is the quickest by any batsman.

“I enjoyed every minute of watching – it was a pity it was against us,” Labuschagne stated.

“That was a very good innings. I sat back and I took some things on board for my own game to learn from that innings.

“To rating 100 off 73 balls, he barely put a foot improper. It was simply phenomenal.”

Labuschagne praised Imam as well but felt dismissing Babar early in Saturday’s decider, also in Lahore, was crucial to clinching the series.

“I believe if we are able to discover a solution to get him out early, put a bit extra strain on the center to decrease order, now we have an opportunity,” the 27-year-old said.

“He batted us out of the sport and truthful play to him. It was an amazing innings.”

HAPPY FOR BEST MATE

Meanwhile, Labuschagne said he was delighted for his childhood friend Ben McDermott who brought up his maiden international hundred in the 2nd ODI. Incidentally, Labuschagne was at the non-striker’s end when his friend got to the landmark. The No. 1-ranked Test batter himself hit 59 from 49 deliveries.

“We had been greatest mates rising up in Australia. He was over at my home nearly each second day, approaching the prepare residence and we used to (play) in my yard,” Labuschagne said.

“The onerous work that he is placing in home cricket within the Big Bash and his four-day recreation as nicely has simply come such a great distance, and I used to be over the moon for him at this time.”