PAK vs WI: Shadab Khan hugs pitch invader during 2nd ODI

Pakistan and West Indies were involved in a thrilling encounter in the first ODI at Multan on June 8 (Wednesday), and the first innings of the second ODI between the two sides at the same venue proved to be the same as West Indies restricted the hosts for 275/8 in their 50 overs. Meanwhile, an incident involving a fan running on to the field was one of the talking points of the first innings.

Pakistan were in a bit of trouble with the score being 205/5 in the 39th over of the innings. As Anderson Phillip ran in to bowl the fourth delivery of the 39th over, his run-up was halted as a spectator impeded the play and ran towards Shadab Khan to salute him. Shadab, who was on strike, responded with a hug to the fan, a gesture that received a huge roar from the crowd.

Notably, the series opener saw this venue hosting its first ODI after a gap of 14 years. The fan running onto the field  shows how much the home crowd has missed international action at the ground. And Shadab’s reaction to the fan’s action was a moving moment as it showcased the connection between the fans and the players.

Former West Indian cricketer Ian Bishop took to Twitter and remarked the incident to be a great moment as the fan was seen jumping with joy after receiving the hug from the Pakistani all-rounder.

Babar Azam and Imam-ul-Haq continued their purple patch with the bat

Earlier in the match, Babar Azam and Imam-ul-Haq consolidated for Pakistan after losing Fakhar Zaman early. The pair added 120 runs for the second wicket as both batters reached their respective half-centuries. Imam looked set for a century, but he fell victim to a misunderstanding with skipper Babar as he was run out on 72.

The Pakistani skipper then blew a golden chance of recording a fourth consecutive ton in ODIs as he was dismissed for 77 . Unfortunately for Pakistan, the middle and lower order couldn’t click as the hosts were restricted inside 300 runs.