Cricket World Cup 2023: Afghanistan stuns Pakistan with a dominant victory

CHENNAI: Afghanistan is continuing to upset big teams in the ongoing World Cup. After defeating England a few days ago, the Afghans have now beaten Pakistan by 8 wickets in the match held tonight. This happens to be Pakistan's third straight defeat in this World Cup.

Afghanistan displayed complete dominance while chasing a substantial target of 283. Openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz (65) and Ibrahim Zadran (87) set the tone with a formidable partnership of 130 runs for the first wicket. Although Shaheen Afridi managed to break this partnership, it proved futile for Pakistan, as Rahmat Shah (77*) and Zadran added another 60 runs for the second wicket. Upon Zadran's departure, Captain Hashmatullah Shahidi (48*) and Rahmat Shah forged a pivotal 96-run partnership, ultimately securing victory for Afghanistan with a total of 286/2 in 49 overs—Afghanistan's highest-ever successful chase in ODI cricket.

During Pakistan's innings, the Afghan bowlers effectively contained the Pakistani batters. Despite a promising start from Shafique (58), Imam-ul-Haq, and Babar Azam (74), the middle order struggled. In the end, valuable contributions from Shadab Khan (40) and Ifthikar Ahmed (40) propelled Pakistan to a total of 282/7 in 50 overs, with Noor Ahmed (3/49) taking three wickets and Naveen-ul-Haq claiming two (2/52).

Pakistan is scheduled to face South Africa on October 27, while Afghanistan will meet Sri Lanka on October 30.

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