Pakistan’s star batter Babar Azam produced a moment of brilliance in the field during the opening match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, leaving fans and experts in awe with an incredible catch on the boundary against the Netherlands.
A Match-Defining Moment in Colombo
The spectacular effort came on Saturday at the Sinhalese Sports Club Ground in Colombo. Netherlands batter Michael Levitt, who looked in good touch early on, attempted a big shot that seemed destined to sail over the boundary for six.
However, Babar Azam had other plans.
How the Catch Unfolded
Perfect Teamwork With Shaheen Afridi
The moment occurred on the second ball of Mohammad Nawaz’s first over. Positioned near the boundary rope, Babar timed his jump perfectly, catching the ball while airborne. Realizing he was losing balance near the rope, he calmly tossed the ball back inside to Shaheen Shah Afridi, who completed the catch safely.
The move showcased not just athleticism, but also sharp awareness and teamwork under pressure.
Crowd Reaction and Instant Impact
The crowd erupted as the replay confirmed the dismissal. What looked like a sure six turned into one of the tournament’s early highlights, instantly shifting momentum in Pakistan’s favor.
Michael Levitt’s Brief but Impactful Innings
Before his dismissal, Michael Levitt had scored 24 runs off 15 balls. His innings included three boundaries and one six, and he appeared set for a bigger knock before Babar’s fielding brilliance ended his stay at the crease.
Babar Azam’s All-Round Value for Pakistan
While Babar Azam is widely known for his elegance with the bat, moments like these underline his importance as a complete cricketer. His commitment in the field continues to add immense value to Pakistan’s T20 setup, especially in high-pressure tournaments like the World Cup.
A Strong Start to the T20 World Cup 2026
With thrilling moments already unfolding in the opening match, the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 has started on an exciting note. Babar Azam’s sensational catch is likely to be remembered as one of the standout fielding moments of the tournament’s early stages.
As the competition progresses, fans can expect more high-quality cricket, dramatic moments, and world-class performances from the game’s biggest stars.
