After winning the toss, Zalmi chose to field first and produced a disciplined bowling performance to restrict Hyderabad Kingsmen to a modest total of 145. In response, Zalmi’s chase was anchored by Babar, who scored 43 runs off 37 balls, stabilizing the innings before being dismissed prior to the final moments. Despite his departure, the team held their composure and clinched a dramatic win on the last ball.
The post-match press conference, however, turned intense when a Pakistani journalist raised questions about Babar’s ability to finish matches, drawing comparisons with Indian star Virat Kohli.
“There are a lot of expectations from you… You carry the innings but don’t finish games. You’re often compared to Virat Kohli… Do you think this comparison is fair?” the journalist asked.
Babar, visibly unimpressed, interrupted the question and firmly dismissed the comparison.
“Khatam kar dein aap. Jis wajah se aap sawal kar rahe hain, chhor dein aap… maine bahut matches finish kiye hain, aapko lagta nahi hai par kiye hain,” he responded.
(Translation: “End this. The basis on which you’re asking this question, leave it. I have finished many matches. You may not think so, but I have.”)
His reaction highlighted growing frustration over persistent comparisons with Kohli. While Babar has long been praised for his consistency and ability to anchor innings, criticism has mounted over his perceived struggles in finishing games, particularly in high-pressure chases.
Although he played a crucial role in Zalmi’s successful chase—contributing nearly 30% of the target—recent performances have intensified scrutiny. A notable dip in form during late 2025 and early 2026 saw Babar register four ducks in five T20I chases involving targets above 180, further fueling debate about his finishing capabilities.
Despite the criticism, Babar’s leadership and contributions remain vital for his side, as demonstrated in Zalmi’s record-breaking chase against Hyderabad Kingsmen.
