In a thrilling encounter at the esteemed M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Pakistan pulled off a dramatic 21-run victory over New Zealand, keeping their hopes alive in the ICC World Cup. This nail-biting match, marked by rain interruptions, provided a captivating spectacle for cricket enthusiasts worldwide.
Mammoth Total Sets the Stage
The day began with New Zealand piling up a colossal 401-6, setting an imposing target for their opponents. The stage was set for a high-octane contest, with the match taking place in the vibrant surroundings of Bengaluru, India.
Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam Shine Bright
Pakistan’s response was nothing short of spectacular. At 160-1 in the 21st over, with Fakhar Zaman having already reached a formidable 126 and captain Babar Azam contributing an impressive 66, the heavens opened up, forcing an interruption in play. The rain, however, was not ready to take the spotlight away from this gripping encounter.
Upon resumption, a revised target of 342 runs in 41 overs was set for Pakistan. With a relentless determination, Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam continued their splendid partnership, propelling the team to 200-1 in the 26th over when the rain returned, this time ending the match. Pakistan was declared the victor, having maintained a required run rate ahead of their Kiwi counterparts.
World Cup Semi-Final Race Heats Up
Both Pakistan and New Zealand now share eight points in the group stage, remaining in contention for coveted semi-final spots. The outcome of this clash added an electrifying twist to the World Cup’s narrative, promising an enthralling race for the knockout stage. 
Hasan Ali’s Landmark Achievement
During this high-stakes World Cup confrontation, medium-pace bowler Hasan Ali achieved a significant milestone. In his 66th match, the 29-year-old dismissed New Zealand opener Devon Conway for 35, marking his 100th one-day international wicket. Hasan Ali joins an elite group of Pakistani bowlers to reach this landmark, with legendary left-armer Wasim Akram leading the way with a staggering 502 wickets in 356 matches.
Pakistan’s Revival
Captain Babar Azam’s strategic choice to field first paid dividends, and Pakistan’s resurgence in the tournament cannot be ignored. South Africa’s resounding 190-run victory over New Zealand in a previous match injected fresh vigor into Pakistan’s World Cup campaign.
As the cricketing world watches with bated breath, Pakistan’s performance in this thrilling victory underscores the unpredictability and fervor of the ICC World Cup.Playing XIs
Pakistan: Fakhar Zaman, Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Salman Ali Agha, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Hasan Ali, Shaheen Afridi, and Haris Rauf.
New Zealand:Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Mitch Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, and Trent Boult.
