In the inaugural conflict of the Asia Cup 2023 on Wednesday, Pakistan showcased their dominance over Nepal with a powerful 238-run triumph in Multan. Babar Azam, the top-ranked batsman on the planet, together with Iftikhar Ahmed, delivered distinctive performances; Babar’s spectacular knock of 151 runs from 131 deliveries marked his nineteenth ODI ton, whereas Iftikhar’s unbeaten 109 runs off 71 balls was his maiden century within the format. Riding on the a whole lot, Pakistan out a mammoth 342/6 earlier than the bowlers made simple work of Nepal batters, bowling them out for merely 104 in 23.4 overs.
Pakistan’s gamers rejoice after the dismissal of Nepal’s Gulsan Jha (not pictured) through the Asia Cup 2023(AFP)
Pakistan did, nonetheless, confronted preliminary setbacks with openers Fakhar Zaman (14) and Imam-ul-Haq (9) departing cheaply; the shortage of kind for Fakhar stays a specific concern for the staff administration. The left-handed opener had endured a poor outing within the latest ODI collection in opposition to Afghanistan as properly, registering scores of two, 30, and 27 throughout three video games. With match in opposition to India up subsequent and key video games arising in Asia Cup in addition to the ODI World Cup in October-November, an out-of-form opener is a removed from superb scenario for Pakistan.
Former Pakistan captain Ramiz Raja believes that Fakhar must be sidelined for a major time frame to make sure he regains focus.
“The big problem is Fakhar Zaman. He is an unorthodox hitter, but when someone like that gets out of form, it takes some time to fi nd solutions on the drawing board. He’s a bottom-handed player, plays on the leg-side, somehow he adjusts with that and scores,” mentioned Ramiz on his official YouTube channel.
“He played three matches against Afghanistan and couldn’t make a mark as well. His body language is suffering, and Pakistan need an in-form opener. If Imam also gets dismissed cheaply, it creates pressure. Pakistan need to assess Fakhar. I believe they should rest him, give him some time out. Sidelining him is better for him as well as the Pakistan side. He’s a good player, Pakistan has given him chances. But against India, with the form that he has, that chance is not worth being taken.”
India subsequent
Pakistan will tackle India in an electrifying Group A conflict up subsequent on Saturday. Babar Azam’s males traveled to Sri Lanka for the sport in Kandy, as India goal to begin their marketing campaign with a victory over their arch-rivals.
India and Pakistan can doubtlessly meet thrice all through the event, given either side qualify for the Super Fours and the ultimate.
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Source: www.hindustantimes.com
