Pakistan’s formidable opener, Imam-ul-Haq, during their face-off against Sri Lanka in the ongoing World Cup 2023, outpaced skipper Babar Azam, achieving 3,000 one-day international (ODI) runs and marking his place as the joint second-fastest batsman to reach this milestone.
This high-octane encounter at Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium witnessed Imam achieving this landmark in just 67 innings. With this achievement, he left behind Azam, who took 68 innings to reach this landmark and joined the league of Fakhar Zaman from his team and West Indies’ Shai Hope, achieving this feat in 67 innings. South Africa’s legend Hashim Amla still holds the record, reaching 3,000 ODI runs in a mere 57 innings.
Sri Lanka’s Batting Powerplay
Earlier in the match, after opting to bat first, Sri Lanka set a formidable target of 345 runs for Pakistan. Their start wasn’t ideal, as Kusal Perera returned without disturbing the scoreboard. However, the early setback didn’t deter the Lankan spirits as Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis stitched a crucial 102-run partnership, with Mendis playing a scintillating knock of 122 runs off just 77 balls, which was adorned with six towering sixes.
Sadeera Samarawickrama, the linchpin for Sri Lanka in this match, played a calculated innings, scoring a magnificent 108 runs off 89 deliveries, steering Sri Lanka’s ship steadily.
Pakistan’s Bowling Highlights
Hasan Ali shone brightly in the bowling department, claiming 4 wickets and conceding 71 runs in his 10-over spell. Meanwhile, Haris Rauf chipped in with 2 wickets, giving away 64 runs in his quota of 10 overs.
