India, Feb. 23 -- Team India made an early breakthrough in their blockbuster clash against arch-rivals Pakistan, as all-rounder Hardik Pandya dismissed star batter Babar Azam to give the side an important breakthrough. Babar, who scored a half-century in Pakistan's previous match against New Zealand, looked in ominous touch, smashing five splendid fours to reach 23 off 24 balls before Hardik found a thick outside-edge, resulting in the batter's early dismissal.

Babar had been severely criticised by former cricketers and fans in Pakistan for his slow knock against New Zealand in the Champions Trophy opener earlier this week. Chasing 321, Babar reached his half-century in 81 deliveries, and eventually scored 64 off 90 deliveries. However, ...