In a thrilling encounter that showcased Pakistan’s cricketing prowess, the team defeated Afghanistan by a huge margin of 59 runs to complete a clean sweep of the three-match ODI series. This victory not only highlighted Pakistan’s dominance on the field but also secured their top position in the ICC ODI rankings. The match saw some brilliant performances with both bat and ball, as well as brilliant moments that defined the narrative of the game.
Pakistan’s Batting Display
After winning the toss and deciding to bat first, Pakistan set Afghanistan a target of 269 runs to win. The opening partnership of Fakhar Zaman and Imam-ul-Haq laid a solid foundation, allowing the team’s star batsmen Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan to flourish. Azam (c) and Rizwan showed their class by scoring fifties, adding 110 runs in 145 balls for the third wicket. Their partnership formed the cornerstone of Pakistan’s innings, setting the stage for a competitive total.
The late flourish in Pakistan’s batting innings was provided by Mohammad Nawaz and Agha Salman who put on 61 runs off just 47 balls for the seventh wicket. Nawaz’s 30 off 25 and Salman’s unbeaten 38 off 31 balls set the pace for the innings, which took the team to a respectable total of 268-8 in 50 overs.
Afghanistan’s Bowling Effort
Afghanistan’s bowlers, led by Gulbuddin Naib and Fareed Ahmed, put up a commendable effort in controlling the Pakistani batsmen. Both picked up wickets apiece, skillfully exploiting conditions and applying pressure at crucial junctures. However, Pakistan’s well-constructed partnership and late surge ensured that Afghanistan’s bowlers were kept at bay for most of the innings.
![Pakistan Topped The ODI Rankings With A Clean Sweep Against Afghanistan 2 Pakistan Topped The ODI Rankings With A Clean Sweep Against Afghanistan](http://fetch.com.pk/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/image-115.jpg.webp)
Brilliant Bowling By Shadab Khan
Pakistan’s leg-spinner, Shadab Khan, emerged as the pick of the bowlers with a brilliant performance. His figures of 3-42 in 10 overs reflect his versatility and ability to deceive batsmen with spin. Shadab’s strategic wicket-taking ability and control over the pace of the game played a major role in dismantling Afghanistan’s batting line-up.
Afghanistan Struggle At The Crease
Chasing the target of 269 runs, Afghanistan faced a Pakistani bowling attack. Unfortunately for Afghanistan, their batting performance went against expectations. The top scorer of the team in the innings was the talented youngster Mujibur Rahman who stunned everyone by playing a career-best knock of 64 runs off just 37 balls. His aggressive innings, which included five fours and a maximum, momentarily staved off the inevitable.
Shahidullah and Riyaz Hasan scored 37 and 34 respectively, yet Afghanistan struggled to establish a substantial partnership or maintain a steady run rate. Lack of a big partnership and Shadab Khan’s inability to deal with the spin saw Afghanistan bowled out for 209 in 48.4 overs.
Conclusion
Pakistan’s stunning victory against Afghanistan in the third ODI not only secured a series sweep but also took them to the top of the ICC ODI rankings. This match showcased Pakistan’s batting depth, bowling prowess and ability to capitalize on key moments. While Afghanistan displayed moments of individual brilliance, they were unable to match the collective efforts of the Pakistan team. As the cricketing world watches these performances unfold, the series is a testament to the passion, skill and competitive spirit that defines ODI cricket.
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