Pakistan secured a vital win against Bangladesh in Tuesday’s World Cup match, triumphing by seven wickets and boosting their chances for the semi-finals.
Bangladesh managed to score only 204 runs, primarily due to Pakistan’s exceptional fast bowlers, Haris Rauf, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Mohammad Wasim Jr, who together took eight wickets. In response, Pakistan achieved the target swiftly in just 32.3 overs. This was made possible by Fakhar Zaman’s splendid 81 off 74 balls and Abdullah Shafique’s contribution of 68 off 69 balls, creating an impressive 128-run partnership.
Highlights from the Match
While batting, Bangladesh had a shaky start but surpassed the 200 mark due to commendable performances from Mahmudullah, Liton Das, and captain Shakib Al Hasan. Shaheen Shah Afridi was exceptional, reaching his 100th wicket in one-day internationals during this match. This feat made him the 21st Pakistani bowler to achieve this milestone. Furthermore, Afridi is now tied with Australian spinner Adam Zampa as the top wicket-taker at this World Cup with 16 wickets.
Bangladesh faced some significant losses with quick dismissals, losing their last six wickets for just 74 runs. Regarding team changes, Pakistan made three alterations from their previous lineup, while Bangladesh made one.
Pakistan Lineup: Fakhar Zaman, Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam (capt), Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Salman Ali Agha, Usama Mir, Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Wasim, and Haris Rauf.
Bangladesh Lineup: Litton Das †, Tanzid Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Shakib Al Hasan (c), Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah, Towhid Hridoy, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, and Shoriful Islam.