Pakistan faced a major setback as key players suffered from fever ahead of a crucial tie against Australia in the World Cup. As they aimed to get their campaign back on track, the team was grappling with high fever among a few players. It hasn’t been the best of times for the Pakistan team in the 2023 World Cup. After an impressive start with wins against the Netherlands and Sri Lanka, the Babar Azam-led side was humiliated in Ahmedabad with a seven-wicket defeat by host nation India, raising questions about their bid for semifinal qualification in the tournament.
As the team looked to regain momentum, the challenge of illness added to their difficulties. Australia beat Pakistan by 62 runs, marking a second consecutive win for the Australians, who have finally got their campaign up and running.
Pakistan had a strong start in their chase after tons from David Warner and Mitchell Marsh saw Australia post a formidable total of 367/9 in 50 overs in match 18 of the 2023 World Cup in Bengaluru on Friday. Openers Abdullah Shafique and Imam-Ul-Haq put up a 134-run opening stand, each scoring half-centuries. Marcus Stoinis ended that stand by dismissing Shafique with his first ball of the match and later went on to get Imam out as well.
Babar Azam then fell to Adam Zampa, thanks to a stunning catch from Pat Cummins. While Mohammad Rizwan, Saud Shakeel, and Iftikhar Ahmed gave Pakistan some hope, the target proved too much, and they were all out for 305. With this, Pakistan recorded their second consecutive defeat, while Australia celebrated two wins on the trot after a disastrous start in the tournament.
Earlier, Australian opener Warner hammered 163 runs off 124 balls, packed with 14 fours and 9 sixes. Meanwhile, his opening partner Marsh clattered 121 off 108 deliveries, including 10 fours and nine sixes. Shaheen Afridi led Pakistan’s late fightback in the innings with a five-wicket haul, and Haris Rauf took 3 wickets.
Bonus
The match between Australia and Pakistan in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 was a high-scoring affair with Australia setting a formidable target of 368 runs. Pakistan started their chase strongly but lost crucial wickets at regular intervals, which ultimately led to their downfall as they were bowled out for 302 runs in the 45th over, losing the match by 62 runs.
Key highlights from the match include
- Australia’s opening partnership of 259 runs was a significant contributor to their total score, despite a collapse of the rest of the batting order.
- Pakistan’s Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf showcased impressive pace bowling, with Afridi taking key wickets.
- David Warner’s outstanding innings of 163 runs off 124 balls earned him the ‘man of the match’ title.
- Pakistan’s chase was spirited, with a strong opening stand, but the loss of wickets at regular intervals hampered their progress.
Back Story
The cricket rivalry between Australia and Pakistan in the ICC Cricket World Cup has a rich history, marked by numerous memorable matches and outstanding performances. This rivalry dates back to the inaugural World Cup in 1975, where the two teams first faced each other on the global stage.
Memorable Matches and Milestones
- 1975 Cricket World Cup: The first-ever World Cup clash between Australia and Pakistan.
- 1987 Cricket World Cup: Australia defeated Pakistan in the semi-finals on their way to winning their first World Cup.
- 1999 Cricket World Cup Final: Australia and Pakistan faced off in the final at Lord’s, with Australia emerging victorious to claim their second World Cup title.
- Tactical Brilliance and Individual Feats: Over the years, matches between these two teams have been highlighted by tactical brilliance from captains and coaches, as well as individual feats from players who have risen to the occasion.
Interesting Facts
- Pakistan’s Cornered Tigers: In the 1992 World Cup, led by Imran Khan, Pakistan’s team went from being on the brink of elimination to winning the tournament, although their match against Australia in the group stages did not go in their favor.
- Australia’s Dominance: Australia has enjoyed a period of dominance in World Cup cricket, winning the trophy multiple times. Their encounters with Pakistan have often showcased their strength and depth in both batting and bowling.
- Record Breakers: These matches have seen record-breaking performances, including top-scoring innings and remarkable bowling figures, contributing to the rich tapestry of World Cup history.
