Pakistan hammered Sri Lanka by 6 wickets in a high-scoring encounter at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, on Tuesday.
With this thrilling win, Pakistan etched their name in the history books as they achieved the highest successful run chase in World Cup history, surpassing Ireland’s stunning chase of 328 against England in the 2011 World Cup.
Pakistan’s opener Abdullah Shafique, making just his fifth appearance in One Day Internationals (ODIs), showcased his batting prowess with a superb innings of 113 runs of 103 balls, striking 10 fours and three sixes. Meanwhile, senior wicket-keeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan fought through cramps and demonstrated remarkable resilience, finishing unbeaten with a memorable 131 runs of 121 balls. His high quality knock included eight fours and three sixes. Together, they formed a crucial partnership of 95 runs, aided by Saud Shakeel’s contribution of 31 runs, allowing Pakistan to successfully chase down 345 in 48.2 overs, with 6 wickets remaining.
Sri Lanka’s innings was marked by exceptional batting performances as well, with Kusal Mendis leading the way with an impressive century, amassing 122 runs from just 77 balls. Mendis struck 14 fours and six sixes during his explosive innings. He was involved in two substantial century partnerships, partnering with Pathum Nissanka (51) for a 102-run stand for the second wicket and later combining with Sadeera Samarawickrama (108) for an impressive 111-run partnership for the third wicket.
This thrilling victory propelled Pakistan to the second position on the points table in the tournament, with New Zealand leading the way.
Final scores: SL 344-9 (50.0) | PAK 345-4 (48.2)