Fast bowler Shaheen Afridi achieved a unique record for Pakistan by taking his 18th consecutive wicket in One Day Internationals (ODIs) during the 8th match of the ICC World Cup against Sri Lanka.
In the match held at Rajiv Gandhi Cricket Stadium in Hyderabad, Sri Lankan openers failed to make a strong start, with Kusal Perera and Pathum Nissanka unable to form a substantial partnership. Kasun Mendis fell to Hasan Ali at 122 runs. Hasan Ali continued his impressive form and took a wicket on the very next ball, dismissing Isuru Udana for 1 run. Sri Lanka managed to score 344 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their allotted 50 overs, which is the highest target set against Pakistan in a World Cup match.
In response, Pakistan’s captain, Babar Azam, expressed his determination to maintain the winning streak and secure victory. Both teams have made changes to their squads, with Sri Lanka replacing Kusal Rajitha with Mahesh Thikshana, and Pakistan bringing in Abdullah Shafique in place of Fakhar Zaman. This encounter marks the 8th time the two teams have faced each other in World Cup matches, with Pakistan holding a 7-0 advantage over Sri Lanka.
