Pakistan Clinches Thrilling Victory Over New Zealand by 21 Runs (DLS) in Cricket World Cup 2023, Keeps Semifinal Hopes Alive

In a thrilling encounter at the Cricket World Cup 2023, Pakistan emerged victorious against New Zealand by 21 runs (DLS method), keeping their hopes alive for a spot in the semi-finals. The match, played in Bengaluru, took a dramatic turn after more than an hour-long rain break, forcing a revised target of 342 in 41 overs for Pakistan.

Before the interruption, Pakistan was cruising at 160/1 in 21.3 overs, with Fakhar Zaman’s sensational century off just 63 balls leading the charge. Despite an early setback with the dismissal of Abdullah Shafique, Fakhar’s aggressive batting against bowlers like Trent Boult and Glenn Philips showcased his prowess. Babar Azam also stood firm at the crease, contributing to the team’s strong position.

New Zealand, initially opting to bat after winning the toss, displayed boldness by promoting Rachin Ravindra to the opener slot alongside Devon Conway. Although Conway lost his wicket to Hasan Ali in the 11th over, Ravindra responded with a brilliant half-century and eventually a century in the 34th over, becoming the first batter to achieve three tons in his debut World Cup. Captain Kane Williamson, scoring 95, and Ravindra set the stage for a formidable total of 401/6 in 50 overs.

After the departure of key players Williamson and Ravindra, Mitchell and Chapman continued the onslaught, building pressure on the Pakistani side. Pakistan’s Mohammad Wasim Jr. ended the innings with three crucial wickets, limiting New Zealand to a target of 402 runs.

Pakistan Clinches Thrilling Victory Over New Zealand by 21 Runs (DLS) in Cricket World Cup 2023, Keeps Semifinal Hopes Alive

With four wins and three defeats in their campaign, New Zealand faced doubts over their capabilities, especially after a massive 190-run loss to South Africa. Pakistan, on the other hand, revived their campaign with a seven-wicket victory against Bangladesh, bringing their points tally to six. A defeat against New Zealand would have dashed Pakistan’s semi-final hopes, but the win keeps them in contention, provided they secure victories in their upcoming matches and rely on favorable results elsewhere.

In terms of team changes, New Zealand welcomed back skipper Williamson, replacing opener Will Young, while Ish Sodhi and Mark Chapman came in for Matt Henry and James Neesham, respectively. Pakistan made a single change, with Hasan Ali replacing Usama Mir.

The race to the top-four in the Cricket World Cup 2023 intensifies with each passing day, promising more excitement and nail-biting encounters. https://cricketsportsnews.com/ https://www.cricbuzz.com/live-cricket-scores/75577/nz-vs-pak-35th-match-icc-cricket-world-cup-2023