The Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2024 has kicked off with some thrilling matches, and the second game of the season between Antigua and Barbuda Falcons and Guyana Amazon Warriors was no different. The match, held at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua, saw Guyana Amazon Warriors clinch a close 3-wicket win. However, the highlight of the game was the unusual and painful dismissal of Pakistani wicketkeeper-batsman Azam Khan, which left fans in shock and became a hot topic on social media.
Azam Khan’s Bizarre Dismissal
During the 12th over of the Amazon Warriors’ innings, bowled by Shamar Springall of Antigua and Barbuda Falcons, Azam Khan faced a fierce bouncer. On the third ball of the over, Springall delivered a sharp, quick bouncer that Azam failed to judge. The ball struck him directly on the neck, causing him to fall to the ground in pain. To make matters worse, after hitting his neck, the ball ricocheted off and hit the stumps, leading to his dismissal. Azam was visibly hurt and walked off the field after scoring just 9 runs. His painful dismissal not only added to his struggles but also sparked a fresh wave of criticism about his fitness.
Fitness Issues and Trolls
Azam Khan has been frequently criticized for his fitness and weight, which often hinders his performance on the field. Despite his powerful hitting abilities, his fitness remains a major concern, drawing constant trolling from fans. At just 26 years old, Azam has played 14 T20 matches for Pakistan but has managed to score only 83 runs with an average below 10. His latest incident in the CPL has reignited debates about his conditioning and the challenges he faces in international cricket.
Match Summary
The match between Antigua and Barbuda Falcons and Guyana Amazon Warriors was a competitive encounter. After winning the toss, Guyana Amazon Warriors opted to bowl first. Antigua and Barbuda Falcons posted a respectable total of 168 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in their 20 overs. In response, Guyana Amazon Warriors chased down the target of 169 runs, securing the win in the final over with 3 wickets in hand.
Azam Khan’s dismissal and injury overshadowed the match, as the viral video of him getting hit on the neck and bowled out continues to circulate online. This incident serves as a reminder of the physical demands of cricket and the importance of fitness, especially in high-pressure leagues like the CPL. For Azam Khan, it was a moment of misfortune and a wake-up call to work on his fitness as he looks to revive his form on the international stage.
