Afghanistan has once again achieved the unexpected, emerging victorious over Pakistan in a thrilling and unpredictable ODI cricket match. Led by Hasmatullah Shahidi, they secured a dominant 8-wicket win against Babar Azam’s squad at the Chepauk Stadium in Chennai. Adding to the spectacle, the Afghanistan team celebrated their triumph with a memorable victory lap at the Chepauk Stadium, marking this as one of the most significant upsets in ODI World Cup history.
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Afghanistan Triumphs Over Pakistan at Chepauk
Afghanistan delivered a stunning performance at Chepauk, securing a commanding eight-wicket victory over Pakistan in the 22nd match of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 on Monday, October 23. Pakistan, opting to bat first, set a competitive target of 282/7 in their allotted 50 overs, with Babar Azam leading the charge with a well-constructed 74 runs off 92 deliveries.
In response, Afghanistan began their chase with an impressive opening partnership between Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran, amassing a formidable 130 runs for the first wicket off 127 balls. However, Shaheen Afridi’s breakthrough, dismissing Gurbaz for 65 off 53 balls in the 22nd over, injected hope for Pakistan.
Despite the setback, Rahmat Shah joined forces with Zadran, contributing 60 runs for the second wicket before Hasan Ali claimed Zadran’s wicket in the 34th over. Captain Hashmatullah Shahidi, entering the field at number four, partnered with Shah to remain unbeaten, guiding Afghanistan to victory with an impressive 96-run partnership.
During the first innings, Pakistan’s solid opening partnership between Abdullah Shafique and Imam-ul-Haq laid a strong foundation. Still, a remarkable performance from the Afghan bowlers, particularly Noor Ahmad, making his World Cup debut with figures of 3/49, restricted Pakistan to 282/7. Despite the setbacks, contributions from Shadab Khan and Iftikhar Ahmed bolstered Pakistan’s total.
Afghanistan’s comprehensive triumph marks their third victory in the history of the ODI World Cup, cementing their reputation as a formidable presence in the tournament.