In Monday’s World Cup game against Afghanistan, Pakistan set a target of 283 runs in Chennai, thanks to a late surge by Iftikhar Ahmed.
By the 38th over of the game against Afghanistan, Pakistan had reached 183 for the loss of four wickets. Skipper Babar Azam was unbeaten on 55 off 75 balls.
The opening pair provided a solid start for Pakistan, adding 56 runs in the initial 10 overs. Imam-ul-Haq was the first to depart after scoring 17 off 22 balls, while Abdullah Shafique reached a half-century before falling to Afghan spinner Noor Ahmad with 58 runs.
Pakistan’s innings progressed at a relatively slow pace, with the Afghan spinner maintaining a tight line and length. The Green Shirts’ scoring rate was approximately 4.8 runs per over.
Pakistan won the toss and opted to bat in their ICC World Cup clash against Afghanistan in Chennai. Both teams are aiming to break their losing streak.
Despite a loss not eliminating Pakistan from the tournament, it would make their path more challenging, given the strong opponents still to face.
Afghanistan, after their historic win against England two games ago, seeks to regain momentum following a loss to New Zealand in the last match. For Afghanistan, who have lost three out of their four fixtures, a defeat would likely mark the end of their campaign.
Weather conditions were anticipated to be hot and dry, and though the venue hadn’t seen high scores in the tournament, the team winning the toss was expected to bat first.
