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[Saba Sports News] In a surprising turn of events, Afghanistan pulled off an extraordinary feat by defeating Pakistan in a dramatic ODI cricket match. Led by Hashmatullah Shahidi, Afghanistan secured a resounding 8-wicket victory over the Babar Azam-led Pakistan side at Chennai’s Chepauk Stadium.
To add to the spectacle, the Afghanistan team celebrated their remarkable win with a victory lap at the Chapauk stadium, making it one of the most significant upsets in the history of the ODI World Cup.
In the 22nd match of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, Afghanistan displayed their dominance against Pakistan. 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 embarked on their chase with a splendid partnership between openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran, amassing an impressive 130 runs for the first wicket off 127 balls. Although Gurbaz was dismissed for 65, Rahmat Shah and Hashmatullah Shahidi remained unbeaten to guide Afghanistan to victory with a remarkable 96-run partnership.
While Pakistan had a solid start in the first innings, courtesy of Abdullah Shafique and Imam-ul-Haq’s partnership, the Afghan bowlers, especially Noor Ahmad, who made his World Cup debut and claimed 3/49, played a pivotal role in limiting Pakistan to 282/7. Contributions from Shadab Khan and Iftikhar Ahmed boosted Pakistan’s total, despite the challenges they faced.
Afghanistan’s comprehensive triumph marked their third victory in the history of the ODI World Cup, solidifying their status as a formidable force in the tournament.