Colombo, Sri Lanka – In a rain-affected Super Four stage encounter at the Asia Cup 2023, India exhibited their prowess, setting Pakistan a daunting 357-run target. At the end of the 32nd over, Pakistan found themselves struggling at 128-8, facing an uphill battle to salvage any pride.
A Record-Breaking Challenge
Pakistan’s pursuit of the mammoth target seemed insurmountable, as their wickets continued to tumble, and the required run rate soared, moving in the opposite direction of their aspirations. With their chances of victory dwindling, the question now arises: Can Pakistan avoid a record-breaking defeat against arch-rivals India?
To maintain their record of inflicting the heaviest defeat in a Pakistan-India clash, Pakistan needs to cross the 177-run mark, a record set during the iconic 2017 Champions League final.
Let’s delve into Pakistan’s innings:
31st Over:In this over, Thakur replaced Jadeja, conceding just 2 runs. Five dots and a double left Pakistan at 121-7.
30th Over:Kuldeep dismissed Iftikhar, who tried to take on the spinner but fell for a catch, contributing to Pakistan’s tally of 119-7.
29th Over: Jadeja’s off-spin posed challenges, ending the 29th over with Pakistan at 115-6.
28th Over: Kuldeep struck again, dismissing Shadab as Thakur completed the catch. Pakistan stood at 111-6.
As the spinners, Jadeja and Kuldeep, continued their hunt for wickets, Pakistan’s chances dwindled further.
There were brief moments when Pakistan showed a glimmer of hope:
24th Over:Kuldeep dismissed Salman with a leg-before-wicket decision, ending Salman’s innings at 23 runs. Pakistan’s chase stood at 96-5.
23rd Over:Jadeja’s second spell proved expensive, with Salman smacking a boundary, providing some relief for Pakistan at 93-4.
India’s Dominance
Switching gears to India’s innings:
Rohit and Gill’s Explosive Start: Skipper Rohit Sharma (56) and Shubman Gill (58) gave India a blazing start with a partnership of 121 off 100 balls, putting Pakistan on the defensive. Both took on Pakistan’s new-ball pair with aerial shots, putting pressure on the opposition.
Rain Plays Spoilsport:Rain interruptions disrupted the game, leading to several inspections and stoppages. Virat Kohli (66*) and KL Rahul (batting on 17) were at the crease when rain forced the players off the field.
