The men in green have finally given a glimmer of hope to the Pakistani fans by defeating Bangladesh with 7 wickets in a crucial match of the World Cup played at Kolkata on Tuesday.
The recent win after three consecutive defeats has not only prevented Pakistan’s early exit from the tournament for the time being, but also breathed new life into their semi-final aspirations.
Bangladesh, after winning the toss and choosing to bat, faltered under the pressure of Pakistan’s formidable bowling attack, managing only a modest total of 204 runs.
Pakistan’s fast bowlers, notably Haris Rauf, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Mohammad Wasim Jr, showcased their brilliance, collectively claiming eight wickets.
Shaheen, in particular, proved devastating with his exceptional figures of 3-23, reaching a significant milestone of 100 wickets in his 51st one-day international match.
His scintillating form continued as he equaled Australian spinner Adam Zampa’s record as the top wicket-taker of the tournament, with 16 wickets to his name.
Bangladesh’s innings were marred by early setbacks, with Shaheen dismissing opener Tanzid Hasan and Haris Rauf sending veteran Mushfiqur Rahim back to the pavilion.
A resilient partnership between Mahmudullah and Liton Das briefly stabilized Bangladesh’s innings, but Iftikhar Ahmed broke the stand with a well-timed dismissal of Liton, caught off a loose shot.
Mahmudullah’s gritty knock of 56 off 70 balls, featuring a six and six boundaries, was cut short by Shaheen’s brilliant outswinger that shattered the top of the off stump.
Despite a valiant effort from skipper Shakib Al Hasan, who managed 43 runs, and a late surge by Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Pakistan’s bowlers continued to dominate.
Mohammad Wasim Jr’s crucial contributions, including the removal of Miraz and lower-order batsmen Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman, further dismantled Bangladesh’s batting lineup. The team collapsed, losing their last six wickets for a mere 74 runs, ultimately folding in 45.1 overs on a dry and slow Eden Gardens pitch.
In response, Pakistan’s chase was led by an exceptional partnership between Fakhar Zaman and Abdullah Shafique. Fakhar Zaman’s explosive innings of 81 runs off 74 balls, coupled with Abdullah Shafique’s composed 68 off 69 balls, guided Pakistan to the target in just 32.3 overs.
Their partnership of 128 runs laid the foundation for Pakistan’s victory, showcasing their batting prowess and determination.
This victory marks a significant turnaround for Pakistan, who made three strategic changes to their lineup, bringing in Fakhar Zaman, Mir, and Agha Salman.
With this impressive win, Pakistan has rekindled their hopes for a spot in the semi-finals, setting the stage for an intense battle in the upcoming matches.
