In a sensational display of cricketing prowess, Fakhar Zaman smashed a remarkable 63-ball century, setting a new record as the fastest Pakistani batter to achieve this feat in World Cup history. His extraordinary performance led Pakistan to a thrilling victory in a rain-affected contest where they successfully chased down a monumental target of 402 runs. Fakhar’s counterattack not only kept Pakistan’s World Cup 2023 campaign alive but also secured a spot for South Africa in the semifinals.
The match had initially seen New Zealand dominating the first 50 overs, giving the impression that they would maintain their dominance in the second innings. Kane Williamson, their captain returning from injury, made a significant contribution with a sublime 95 and took a fantastic running catch to dismiss Abdullah Shafique early on. However, Pakistan, undeterred by the early setback, launched a blazing counterattack, courtesy of Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam. They took on Trent Boult, pinching 42 runs off his first four-over spell.
The partnership between Fakhar and Babar began with a bang, with Babar providing steady support and rotating the strike. Fakhar, the left-handed opener, displayed an array of shots, including 8 fours and 11 sixes. The only quiet moment in his innings was a maiden over he faced against Glenn Phillips during the second powerplay. However, he quickly resumed his attacking approach, hitting back-to-back sixes and breaking free.
Rain initially interrupted the game when Pakistan was 160/1, and they were ahead by 10 runs on the DLS method at that point. After a 90-minute delay, the target was revised to 342 in 41 overs, but cricket resumed for only four overs before the game was interrupted again. In that short span, Fakhar took down Ish Sodhi with calculated precision, hitting him for 3 sixes in an 18-run over, firmly placing Pakistan ahead of the DLS par score.
Earlier in the day, New Zealand had set a formidable target of 401/6, with a crucial 180-run partnership between Rachin Ravindra (scoring 108) and Kane Williamson (scoring 95). This was Ravindra’s third ODI century, and it happened to be his third in the World Cup 2023 edition as well.
Williamson and Ravindra’s partnership began after the early departure of Devon Conway, who was dismissed by Hasan Ali. However, the partnership primarily targeted Pakistan’s part-time spinners, Iftikhar Ahmed and Agha Salman. The pair returned combined figures of 10-0-76-1, with Iftikhar taking a wicket, thanks to a brilliant catch by Fakhar. Williamson’s innings included 10 fours and 2 sixes.
Ravindra’s departure followed shortly, caught by Saud Shakeel. Mohammad Wasim Jr. bowled tightly and picked up three crucial wickets, with Hasan Ali being the only expensive bowler among the senior pacers. Glenn Phillips played a late attacking role for New Zealand, contributing 41 runs from 25 balls.
In summary, Pakistan’s extraordinary run chase, fueled by Fakhar Zaman’s century, kept their World Cup hopes alive and set the stage for an exciting tournament.
Disclaimer: The prediction is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While making your prediction, consider the points mentioned, and make your own decision.
