Pakistan pulled off an incredible run chase to beat Sri Lanka by 5 wickets and chase down a mammoth 345 in the highest scoring game in Cricket World Cup history.
Heroic Partnership Between Shafique and Rizwan Lays the Platform
After losing two early wickets, Pakistan’s chances of chasing 345 seemed distant. But a brilliant 176-run partnership between Abdullah Shafique (113 off 103 balls) and Muhammad Rizwan (131 not out off 121 balls) brought Pakistan back into the match.
Shafique Battles Before Falling for Century
Shafique, brought into the team for Fakhar Zaman, produced a fantastic century to stabilize Pakistan’s innings. He battled cramps to reach 113 before being caught at point. But his knock alongside Rizwan’s laid the foundation for the record chase. Additionally, you can also read about- ICC World Cup 2023 Sri Lanka Team Analysis [Key Players to Watch]
Rizwan Fights Through Injuries to Guide Pakistan Home
Rizwan needed treatment for back pain and calf cramps but showed incredible courage to fight through the pain and remain unbeaten. After Shafique fell, Rizwan shared a 95-run stand with Saud Shakeel before finishing off the chase with 10 balls to spare. His 131* is a career-best.
Sri Lanka Post 344/9 on Back of Mendis and Samarawickrama Centuries
Sri Lanka got off to a flying start, with Kusal Mendis smashing 122 off 77 balls and Sadeera Samarawickrama making 108 off 89. Their superb partnership took Sri Lanka to 229-3 after 30 overs. But the scoring rate slowed as the innings progressed. Still, 344/9 was Sri Lanka’s highest ever World Cup total. If you want you can also read – Irfan Pathan Predicts Top Batter and Top Bowler of ODI World Cup 2023
