INDIA: To survive the Cricket World Cup, Pakistan overcame New Zealand with a thrilling 21-run victory in the pouring rain, headed by captain Babar Azam and centurion Fakhar Zaman. Zaman, the opening batsman for Pakistan, created history on Saturday by recording the fastest century for his nation in World Cup history.
In a pivotal World Cup match, Pakistan was 10 runs ahead on the Duckworth Lewis (DLS) par score until rain stopped their momentum. Rain interrupted play with 21.3 overs bowled, leaving Pakistan comfortably at 160 for one in their chase of 402 runs for victory. To defeat New Zealand and maintain their hopes of qualifying for the World Cup, Pakistan was given a revised target of 342 off 41 overs on Saturday.
It proved to be a mistake for Pakistan to bowl first as Rachin Ravindra (108) produced his third century of the present World Cup and shared 180 runs for the second wicket with captain Kane Williamson (95), laying the groundwork for New Zealand’s total. To keep their dreams of winning the tournament alive, Pakistan had to chase the mark in 35.2 overs to defeat the Kiwis on net run rate (NRR).
Towards the end, New Zealand’s total was helped by quick runs from Glenn Phillips (41), Mark Chapman, and Daryl Mitchell. Of the Pakistani bowlers, Mohammad Wasim (3/60) was the best; Iftikhar Ahmed, Hasan Ali and Haris Rauf each claimed a wicket. Following a commanding victory against defending champions England in the opening match of the ICC World Cup 2023, New Zealand has lost their last three games. In their last encounter, South Africa won by 190 runs.
On the other side, Pakistan defeated Bangladesh to snap a four-game losing streak. They needed to win to maintain their hopes of making it to the semifinals, as the game was getting closer to its crucial point. Thanks to the DLS, Pakistan has managed to keep their hopes alive.
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