Fakhar Zaman’s century propelled Pakistan to a 180-run victory over India in the 2017 Champions Trophy final. The southpaw was also adjudged the man of the match for his maiden ton. The opener has now revealed how he was also at the receiving end of few sledges from India skipper Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah.
There was a lot of chatter when Azhar Ali and I were at the crease. Virat was constantly saying, “Arre, ek wicket nikal jayega toh yeh saare out ho jaayenge. Bas ek ko nikaalo jaldi (If we get one wicket, the rest will collapse),” Fakhar said to Firspost.
Bumrah dismissed Fakhar while he was batting on 3 but the celebrations were short lived as it was a no ball.
“Bumrah had me caught behind, but it was off a no ball. So, he was also very vocal. On one occasion, he said, “Thoda saamne bhi run banaa le. Kab tak aise khelega?(Make some runs in front of the wicket. How long are you going to play like this?),” said Fakhar about Bumrah.
The batsman, however, also said that he found the sledging “positive” and that the Indian cricketers never crossed the line.