Babar Azam as SRH promo video cover driving master?

Following his identification of Pakistan’s Babar Azam as the master of the cover drive in a Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) promotional film, South African all-rounder Wiaan Mulder generated a social media stir.

Mulder was asked to name players that shine at particular cricket strokes on a fun pop quiz.

Regarding the pull shot, he quickly mentioned Rohit Sharma of India. Mulder said, without thinking, “Babar Azam,” for the best cover drive. Delivered with conviction, the answer underlined Azam’s exquisite and technically sound strokeplay, so refined it’s sometimes regarded as artwork in motion.

Some IPL enthusiasts, maybe hoping for a name of Virat Kohli or another Indian star, were taken aback, though.

Given his earlier on-field collision with Azam, Mulder’s compliments are particularly noteworthy. Tensions erupted during Pakistan’s Test trip of South Africa earlier this year when Mulder, annoyed by Azam’s tenacity, hurled the ball in his direction, igniting a furious argument that made headlines.

That Mulder today freely values Azam’s hitting technique shows how ability can transcend rivalry.

It is crucial to note that Babar’s recent decline in form has drawn attention even with his notoriety. He has not scored a century across forms since his 151-run assault against Nepal in August 2023.

During the tri-nation ODI series with New Zealand and South Africa, Babar was elevated to begin the innings alongside returning Fakhar Zaman. He did, however, only score 10, 23, and 29.

Hoping he would have a great performance, the team management kept supporting him as an opener in the recently finished ICC Men’s Champions Trophy despite his challenges in the new position.

On the group stage games against New Zealand and India respectively, the former captain scored 64 and 23 respectively, so failing to make a significant impression.

The post Babar Azam as SRH promo video cover driving master? appeared first on Ten Sports TV.