WC 2023: Another Upset In WC2023 As Afghanistan Defeats Pakistan

Chennai, 23rd October 2023: In a thrilling encounter at the MA Chidambaram stadium in Chennai today, Afghanistan has once again caused a major upset in the ICC ODI Cricket World Cup 2023. Pakistan, who won the toss and elected to bat first, posted a total of 282 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in their 50 overs. However, Afghanistan showcased a remarkable performance, chasing down the target of 283 with 8 wickets to spare and an over remaining.

Pakistan’s innings got off to a shaky start with opener Imam ul Haq failing to make a significant impact. Abdullah Shafique provided some stability, scoring 58 runs off 75 balls before being dismissed lbw by Noor Ahmad. Pakistan’s captain, Babar Azam, who has been struggling with his form in this tournament, managed to score 74 runs off 92 balls before being caught by Mohammed Nabi on Noor Ahmad’s delivery. Contributions from Shadab Khan and Iftikhar Ahmed helped Pakistan reach a competitive total.

From Afghanistan’s bowling attack, Noor Ahmad was the standout performer, claiming 3 wickets in his 10 overs while conceding 49 runs. Naveen ul Haq took two wickets, while Mohammad Nabi and Azmatullah Omarzai chipped in with one wicket each.

In their chase, Afghanistan got off to a solid start with Rahmanullah Gurbaz scoring 65 runs off 53 balls. He was caught by Usama Mir on Shaheen Afridi’s delivery. The second opener, Ibrahim Zadran, played a crucial innings of 87 runs off 113 balls before being caught by Mohammed Rizwan on Hasan Ali’s delivery. Rahmat Shah remained unbeaten on 77, and Afghanistan’s captain, Hashmatullah Shahidi, contributed 48 runs not out, ensuring Afghanistan’s victory by 8 wickets with an over left.

Pakistan, who had been vying for a spot in the tournament’s knockout stage, suffered a major upset at the hands of Afghanistan, who secured their third ODI victory in their ICC ODI World Cup history.

The action continues tomorrow as South Africa faces Bangladesh at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Cricket enthusiasts around the world can expect more thrilling encounters as the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 unfolds.