In a crucial ICC World Cup 2023 match against South Africa, Pakistan set a target of 271 runs for their opponents. However, their innings was marked by a series of ups and downs. Pakistan’s top-order batsmen, Abdullah Shafique and Imamul Haq, were dismissed cheaply, putting the team in a difficult position early in the innings. Captain Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan tried to stabilize the innings with a partnership, but the latter was dismissed for 31.
Babar Azam, Pakistan’s skipper, reached a half-century but was eventually removed for 50. Iftikhar Ahmed also contributed 21 runs before being dismissed. It was Saud Shakeel and Shadab Khan who provided a boost to Pakistan’s total with aggressive batting, scoring 52 and 43 runs respectively. However, once they were dismissed, Mohammad Nawaz attempted to maintain the momentum but was caught on the off-side, ending Pakistan’s innings at 270 runs in 46.4 overs.
Pakistan’s decision to bat first after winning the toss was an attempt to set a competitive target, as they aimed to bounce back from three consecutive defeats in the tournament. Hasan Ali, a key fast bowler for Pakistan, was unavailable for this match due to illness, but the PCB assured that he would have time to recover before the remaining games in the World Cup.
With a target of 271 runs to defend, Pakistan’s bowlers and fielders face a crucial task in their must-win match against South Africa.
