In a high-stakes ICC Champions Trophy Group A match at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Pakistan set a target of 241 runs for India. Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Pakistan’s innings faced early challenges but saw a stabilizing partnership between Saud Shakeel and Mohammad Rizwan.
The opening pair struggled to build momentum, with Imam-ul-Haq being run out for 10 and Babar Azam edging behind for 23 off Hardik Pandya’s delivery. At 47/2 in the 10th over, the pressure was on Pakistan to recover. Shakeel and Rizwan then combined for a crucial 104-run stand, with Shakeel contributing a composed 62 before being caught by Axar Patel off Hardik Pandya. Rizwan added 46 runs but was bowled by Axar Patel shortly after.
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The middle and lower order faced difficulties as India’s bowlers maintained tight lines. Kuldeep Yadav was particularly effective, securing figures of 3/40, including the dismissals of Salman Agha and Shaheen Shah Afridi in consecutive deliveries. Khushdil Shah remained unbeaten on 31, attempting to push the total past 240, but wickets continued to fall at regular intervals.
India’s bowling attack showcased discipline and control. Hardik Pandya’s all-round performance stood out, as he not only took key wickets but also maintained an economical spell. The spinners, Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav, effectively contained Pakistan’s scoring rate during the middle overs, preventing any significant acceleration.
As the match progresses, India’s batsmen will aim to chase down the target on a pitch that has shown variable behavior. The outcome of this encounter is crucial for both teams’ prospects in the tournament, adding to the intensity of this storied rivalry.
