Pakistan stamped their dominance at the ICC World Cup 2023, registering an impressive win against Sri Lanka in Hyderabad; the exceptional batting performances of Mohammad Rizwan and Abdullah Shafique became the cornerstone of this victory.
Chasing a formidable target of 345 set by Sri Lanka, Pakistan rewrote the history books, surpassing Ireland’s record for the highest run chase in an ODI World Cup 2011. The early loss of star batsmen Imam-ul-Haq and Babar Azam could have derailed their chase. Still, the formidable partnership between Rizwan and World Cup debutant Abdullah Shafique steered Pakistan back on track.
This dynamic pair forged a 176-run stand, bolstering Pakistan’s position in the game. Shafique’s commendable innings concluded at 113 runs off 103 deliveries. In comparison, Rizwan’s stellar unbeaten knock of 131 runs etched his name as the scorer of Pakistan’s second-highest individual tally in World Cup history.
Upcoming Showdown: Pakistan vs India
This remarkable win will undoubtedly be a morale booster for Pakistan as they gear up for the much-awaited World Cup clash against arch-rivals India at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad, on October 14.
Batting first, Sri Lanka displayed immense prowess, setting a challenging target of 344 runs, marking their highest total against Pakistan in World Cup history. This record-breaking performance eclipsed India’s 336 runs from the 2019 World Cup. Kusal Mendis’ explosive 122 off 77 balls and Sadeera Samarawickrama’s steady century were the key highlights for the Sri Lankan side.
While Pakistan gears up to face India on October 14, Sri Lanka will challenge Australia on October 16 in Lucknow.
Playing XIs for the Match
Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis (wk), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Dasun Shanaka (c), Dunith Wellalage, Mahesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana, Dilshan Madushanka
Pakistan: Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam (c), Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Nawaz, Shadab Khan, Hasan Ali, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf
