In a thrilling opening match of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, Pakistan displayed their cricketing prowess, securing a resounding 81-run victory over the Netherlands at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. This impressive win was attributed to remarkable performances by several key players, setting a promising tone for Pakistan’s campaign in the tournament.
Pakistan initially found themselves in a precarious position at 38-3 after being inserted to bat. However, a remarkable partnership worth 120 runs off 114 deliveries between Mohammad Rizwan and the World Cup debutant, Saud Shakeel, steered the team back on track. Rizwan contributed 68 runs off 75 balls, while Saud Shakeel’s dazzling 52-ball 68, featuring nine boundaries and a six, earned him well-deserved applause. The duo’s partnership was instrumental in guiding Pakistan to a competitive total of 286.
Additional support came from all-rounders Shadab Khan and Mohammad Nawaz, who crafted a crucial 64-run stand for the seventh wicket. Nawaz scored 39 off 43 balls, while Shadab Khan contributed 32 off 34 deliveries, bolstering Pakistan’s innings and providing them with a defendable target.
In reply, the Netherlands initially posed a challenge as their half-centurions, Vikramjit Singh and Bas de Leede, compiled a steady partnership of 70 runs off 76 balls for the third wicket. However, the tide turned when Haris Rauf’s fiery two-wicket burst within three balls disrupted the Netherlands’ momentum. Hasan Ali, making his return to ODI cricket after a gap of over 15 months, clinched two wickets, and Shaheen Afridi, Iftikhar Ahmed, Nawaz, and Shadab Khan each contributed with a wicket.
Pakistan maintained a tight grip on the match and efficiently managed their net run rate as they bowled out the opposition in just 41 overs. Bas de Leede, who scored 67 runs off 68 balls, briefly threatened to prolong the contest, but Mohammad Nawaz’s exceptional delivery in the 34th over ensured his dismissal.
Looking ahead to their next fixture against Sri Lanka, Mohammad Nawaz emphasized the importance of a positive start to a significant tournament. “We have played two practice matches here and our tournament opener in Hyderabad. It all, however, boils down to playing good cricket on the day and executing your skills perfectly. We are hopeful of carrying the momentum that we have gained by beating the Netherlands and finishing the Hyderabad leg with a win,” said Nawaz.
Despite their previous records, Nawaz underlined that the past results would have no impact when facing Sri Lanka. He emphasized a fresh outlook, stating, “They have won important matches against us in the last one year in white-ball cricket, but that is in the past and it should not affect us. We will go in with a ‘new game, new day,’ and a positive mindset on Tuesday.”
Pakistan’s promising start to the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 has ignited hopes of a successful campaign as they prepare to face Sri Lanka in their next encounter.
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