In a big clash between Bangladesh and Pakistan, Pakistan bundled out the Bengal Tigers for 204 in 45.1 overs, and chased 205 afterwards in just 32.3 overs with a loss of 3 wickets. The match was held at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata which saw Pakistan climbing up to the third position on the leaderboard having registered 3rd win of the tournament after three consecutive losses.
For Bangladesh, none of the batters could go above the 50-run mark except Mahmudullah who scored 56 runs off 70 deliveries. Their bowling unit also remained incapable of scalping crucial wickets during the second innings. Pakistani openers showcased their exceptional batting prowess chasing down the target easily. While Abdullah Shafique scored 68 runs, Fakhar Zaman smashed 81 runs of 74 balls, highest for Pakistan.
Mohammad Kaif’s claim
While speaking to Star Sports, former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif stated that the Player of the Match should have been Shaheen Shah Afridi instead of Fakhar Zaman. While Fakhar played a brilliant knock against Bangladesh, Afridi took an exceptional 3-wicket haul providing the much needed breakthrough for the team.
Kaid remarked “A lot of runs are being scored in this World Cup, records are being created, give some rewards to the bowlers as well. As Irfan Pathan said, the commentators decide it. They probably forgot the first innings.” While speaking about Fakhar’s knock, he added “We all get influenced because he hit seven sixes. But actually, Shaheen Shah Afridi’s spell won them the match. He was struggling with the new ball but he picked up wickets in powerplay. He set the tone of the game and Mahmudullah’s wicket. So it was given wrongly.”
Babar’s men making a comeback
The Men in Green seemed to be devastated after heavily losing three consecutive games lately. But yesterday, some hope could be seen striking up the team after a much-needed victory against Bangladesh. Now that they have jumped on the 5th rank, their destiny is set to be decided by a set of match results for sealing their spot in the semi-finals. Pakistan will take on New Zealand in its nexton November 4 at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore.
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